OBJECTIVES: To determine survival of patients with metastatic renal carcinoma treated with interferon.METHODS: Retrospective longitudinal study with 18 patients with the diagnosis of metastatic renal carcinoma treated in the University Hospital Manuel Fajardo between July 2002 and September 2007 with radical surgery and alpha 2b recombinant interferon, either adjuvant or as monotherapy.RESULTS: 74% (14/18) of the patients were males, 26% (5/18) females. 72% (13/18) underwent radical surgery plus interferon, and 28% (5/18) received interferon monotherapy.Complete response was observed in 22% (4/18); 78% (14/18) had progression. One, 2, 4 and 5-year survivals were 50%, 33%, 28%, and 22%, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: No significant response was found. There was not tumor regression in any case using interferon. Survival was better in cases undergoing radical nephrectomy plus interferon than cases treated with interferon monotherapy.