Evaluation of axitinib to downstage cT2a renal tumours and allow partial nephrectomy: a phase II study

To evaluate the ability of neoadjuvant axitinib to reduce the size of T2 renal cell carcinoma (RCC) for shifting from a radical nephrectomy (RN) to a partial nephrectomy (PN) indication, offering preservation of renal function.Patients with cT2aN0NxM0 clear-cell RCC, considered not suitable for PN, were enrolled in a prospective, multicentre, phase II trial (AXIPAN). Axitinib 5 mg, and up to 7-10 mg, was administered twice daily, for 2-6 months...