[Sunitinib--from paradigm shift to standard treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma].

Targeted therapies have led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). The multi-kinase inhibitor Sunitinib was rapidly established as a new standard in first-line therapy. Sunitinib was systematically developed in a comprehensive study program starting with phase II studies in second-line therapy, progressing to a phase III study of first-line therapy and ending with broad application in clinical practice. The prognosis for patients with mRCC has significantly improved with the introduction of the multi-kinase inhibitor: Sunitinib has doubled progression-free survival and quadrupled the response rate compared to Interferon alpha. This benefit is supported by more than 2 years overall survival in the Sunitinib arm of the study. In combination with the consistent results of the international Sunitinib Expanded Access Program, the substance possesses a broad evidence base on extensive practical application in all patient populations. This is also reflected in the recommendations of national and international professional associations. Sunitinib is the most frequently applied drug for mRCC in Germany.