PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: At least 4 weeks since prior biologic therapy No concurrent immunomodulating agents Chemotherapy: No prior chemotherapy for renal cell carcinoma No other concurrent cytostatic or cytotoxic therapy Endocrine therapy: At least 4 weeks since prior hormonal therapy No concurrent hormonal agents Radiotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 weeks since prior radiotherapy No prior radiotherapy to greater than 15% of bone marrow No concurrent radiotherapy Surgery: See Disease Characteristics