Biomarkers for Renal Cell Carcinoma Recurrence: State of the Art

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We aim to summarize the current state of art about the possible use of biomarkers for predicting renal cell carcinoma (RCC) recurrence after curative treatment. In addition, we aim to provide a snapshot about the clinical implication of biomarkers use for follow-up planification. RECENT FINDINGS: A wide variety of biomarkers have been proposed. RCC biomarkers have been individuated in tumoral tissue, blood, and urine. A variety of molecules, including proteins, DNA, and RNA, warrant a good accuracy for RCC recurrence and progression prediction. Their use in prediction models might warrant a better patients’ risk stratification. SUMMARY: Future prognostic models will probably include a combination of classical features (tumor grade, stage, etc.) and novel biomarkers. Such models might allow a more accurate treatment and follow-up planification.