Quality of life outcomes in patients with localised renal cancer: a literature review

PURPOSE: Patients with localised renal cell carcinoma (RCC) can expect excellent oncologic outcomes. As such, there has been a shift towards maximising health-related quality of life (HRQoL). A greater understanding of HRQoL outcomes associated with different treatment options for RCC can facilitate patient-centred care, shared decision-making and enable cost utility analyses to guide health policies. The aim of this literature review was to evaluate the evidence regarding HRQoL following different management strategies for localised RCC. METHODS: Three databases were searched to identify studies reporting HRQoL in patients with localised renal cancer, including Medline, the Tuft’s Medical Centre Cost Effectiveness Analysis registry and the EuroQol website. RESULTS: Considerable methodological heterogeneity was noted. Laparoscopic nephrectomy was associated with significantly better short-term physical function compared to open surgery, although the effect on mental function was inconclusive. Nephron-sparing surgery was associated with better physical function compared to radical surgery. Patients’ perception of remaining renal function was a significant independent predictor of HRQoL, rather than surgery type. Tumour size, stage, post-operative complications, age, body mass index, occupational status, educational level and comorbidities were significant predictors of HRQoL. Only three studies were available regarding non-surgical management options and very little data were available regarding the impact of follow-up protocols and long-term effects of “cancer survivorship.” CONCLUSION: There is a need for validated and reproducible RCC-specific HRQoL instruments and standardisation amongst studies to enable comparisons. Increased awareness regarding determinants of poor HRQoL may enable high-risk patients to receive tailored support. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1007/s00345-018-2415-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.