The efficacy of VEGFR TKI therapy after progression on immune combination therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND The outcome of patients who progress on front-line immune-based combination regimens (IC) including immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) and receive subsequent systemic therapy is unknown. Methods Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with clear-cell mRCC who progressed on one of seven clinical trials investigating an IC and received ≥1 line of subsequent VEGFR TKI therapy. Results Thirty-three patients [median age 57 (37–77), 85% male, 73% ECOG 0] were included. For evaluable patients ( N = 28), the best response to first subsequent therapy was 29% partial response, 54% stable disease, and 18% progressive disease. The median PFS (mPFS) for first subsequent therapy was 6.4 months (95% CI, 4.4–8.4); no difference in mPFS by prior type of IC (VEGFR TKI-CPI vs. CPI-CPI) was noted ( p = 0.310). Significant AEs were observed in 30% of patients, more frequently transaminitis (9%). Conclusions VEGFR TKIs have clinical activity in mRCC refractory to IC therapy, possibly impacted by the mechanism of prior combination therapy.