DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed metastatic renal cell adenocarcinoma Histologic confirmation of metastases desirable Progression of metastases within 2 months of study No clinically manifest CNS metastasis Bidimensionally measurable metastases, as follows: Lung lesion with diameter greater than 2 cm Superficial lymph node or skin or subcutaneous lesion with diameter greater than 2.5 cm Lymph node in the mediastinum or retroperitoneal region, liver lesion, or soft tissue lesion visible on CT or ultrasound with initial diameter greater than 2.5 cm No bone lesion without surrounding, measurable soft tissue lesion