Sequencing systemic therapies in advanced RCC: is there a best strategy?

There is a strong rationale for sequencing targeted therapy in metastatic clear cell renal cancer. However the timing of the switch and the best agent to switch to remains unclear. Randomized data currently are supportive of the sequence of axitinib, followed by everolimus in those patients in which first-line vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy fails. Everolimus is also justified in the second-line setting, and the overall survival data for sorafenib in VEGF TKI resistant disease is impressive. A degree of cross-resistance appears to exist between all these current agents and has resulted in a drive toward the development of new therapies with novel modes of action.