Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is an RCC subtype affecting 15% of RCC patients <45 years. We analyzed the benefit of targeted therapy [vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-targeted agents and/or mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors] in these patients.

Patients with Xp11 translocation/TFE3 fusion gene metastatic RCC who had received targeted therapy were identified. Nuclear TFE3 positivity was confirmed by reviewing pathology slides. Responses according to RECIST criteria, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

Overall, 53 patients were identified; 23 had metastatic disease, and of these 21 had received targeted therapy (median age 34 years). Seven patients achieved an objective response. In first line, median PFS was 8.2 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.6-14.7 months] for sunitinib (n = 11) versus 2 months (95% CI 0.8-3.3 months) for cytokines (n = 9) (log-rank P = 0.003). Results for further treatment (second, third, or fourth line) were as follows: all three patients receiving sunitinib had a partial response (median PFS 11 months). Seven of eight patients receiving sorafenib had stable disease (median PFS 6 months). One patient receiving mTOR inhibitors had a partial response and six patients had stable disease. Median OS was 27 months with a 19 months median follow-up.

In Xp11 translocation RCC, targeted therapy achieved objective responses and prolonged PFS similar to those reported for clear-cell RCC.