[Molecularly defined renal cell carcinomas].

Abstract

Background: The latest edition of the WHO classification of urinary and male genital tumours was published in 2022. The revision was based on the newest scientific literature. This article summarizes the updated recommendations regarding the classification of molecularly defined tumours.

Results and conclusions: The current edition of the WHO classification of tumours introduced the new category of molecularly defined tumours. This category includes TFE3-rearranged RCC, TFEB-altered RCC, ELOC-mutated RCC, FH-deficient RCC, SDH-deficient RCC, ALK-rearranged RCC and SMARCB1-deficient RCC. The change reflects the importance of the respective alterations with regard to tumour biology and future treatment options. Simultaneously, the diagnosis of these tumours, which sometimes can show equivocal morphologies, is facilitated.