[Histological subtypes of renal cell carcinoma : Overview and new developments].

BACKGROUND

The classification of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has changed remarkably in recent years.

OBJECTIVES

This is a short overview of the classification of RCC, focusing on new developments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was performed resulting in an overview of the classification of RCC. Emerging entities were discussed in detail.

RESULTS

Apart from the RCC subtypes in the WHO classification of 2016, several emerging entities came up over the last few years that are characterized by typical morphology, immunophenotype, and especially specific genetic alterations.

CONCLUSION

Precise classification of RCC is the key to better prognostic assessment with potential tumor-specific therapy and plays an important role in the recognition of possible association with hereditary tumor syndromes.