Novel Imaging Technique Shows Promise in Diagnosing Kidney Cancer

A groundbreaking study from the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center has introduced a non-invasive imaging method that accurately detects clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common and deadliest form of kidney cancer. Published in The Lancet Oncology, the findings have the potential to revolutionize how kidney cancer is diagnosed and treated, sparing patients unnecessary surgeries and ensuring timely intervention.

A New Approach to Kidney Cancer Diagnosis

Traditional imaging methods like CT and MRI often struggle to distinguish between benign and malignant kidney tumors, leading to either overtreatment or delayed care. To address this challenge, researchers evaluated a novel imaging method using 89Zr-TLX250, a monoclonal antibody drug that targets CA9, a protein highly expressed in up to 95% of ccRCC cases. The drug, labeled with a radioactive marker, enables PET-CT scans to "light up" cancerous cells, offering precise detection.

The phase 3 ZIRCON trial, involving 332 patients across nine countries, demonstrated the technique’s high diagnostic accuracy, with 85.5% sensitivity and 87.0% specificity. Remarkably, the method was effective even for small renal masses (<2 cm), which are increasingly detected due to widespread imaging use. Additionally, the procedure was deemed safe, with no significant adverse effects reported.

Why This Matters

Kidney cancer accounts for more than 81,000 diagnoses annually in the U.S., with ccRCC representing 75% of cases and 90% of related deaths. As Dr. Brian Shuch, lead author and director of UCLA's Kidney Cancer Program, explained, early detection is critical: “If kidney cancer is diagnosed late, the chances of survival drop significantly, especially if the cancer has spread. But if caught early, over 90% of patients can survive for at least five years.”

By reliably distinguishing between benign and malignant kidney masses, 89Zr-TLX250 PET-CT imaging could transform clinical decision-making. The technology not only minimizes unnecessary surgeries but also allows for precise treatment planning, improving patient outcomes. Moreover, its potential extends beyond ccRCC, as ongoing trials investigate its ability to detect metastatic disease in high-risk patients post-surgery.

Looking Ahead

Researchers believe this imaging technique could establish a new standard in kidney cancer diagnostics, akin to the impact of PET-CT imaging in prostate cancer management. With additional trials like the CANINE study underway, the team hopes to further refine its applications, including earlier detection of metastasis and optimized post-surgical treatments. If widely adopted, this approach may significantly reduce the burden of kidney cancer while enhancing care for thousands of patients.