Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography with 89Zr-girentuximab Can Aid in Diagnostic Dilemmas of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Suspicion

Based on the high expression of carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) in 95% of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the anti-CAIX monoclonal antibody girentuximab can be used for the detection of ccRCC. This clinical study explores the value of 89Zr-labeled girentuximab positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging in diagnostic challenges regarding ccRCC. PET/CT imaging was performed 4 or 5 d after injection of 89Zr-girentuximab in patients with a primary renal mass (n=16) or a history of ccRCC (n=14). Scans were used for decision making (surgery/active surveillance) in case of indistinct renal masses. All resected PET-positive primary lesions proved to be ccRCC, while no lesion progression was seen in PET-negative masses. In patients suspected of recurrent/metastatic ccRCC, PET/CT with 89Zr-girentuximab was useful to confirm or exclude ccRCC, evaluate the extent of the disease, and differentiate from other cancers. In this group, 89Zr-girentuximab PET/CT resulted in a major change in clinical management in five patients (36%), while in three patients (21%) repeat biopsies could be avoided. We conclude that 89Zr-girentuximab PET/CT is a valuable diagnostic tool that can guide clinical decision making in case of diagnostic dilemmas concerning ccRCC suspicion. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging with 89Zr-girentuximab can be a valuable diagnostic tool to identify clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging with 89Zr-girentuximab, based on the high expression of carbonic anhydrase IX on the cell surface of 95% of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), is a valuable diagnostic tool to evaluate patients suspected of primary, recurrent, or metastatic ccRCC.