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Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus induced by two amphotericin B liposomal formulations
Nicole L Metzger1, Kimberly L Varney Gill
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Abstract:
Immunocompromised patients are at risk for invasive molds and resistant fungal infections for which amphotericin B may be the only feasible treatment. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (DI) and renal tubular acidosis are known adverse effects of conventional amphotericin B; however, nephrogenic DI has been uncommonly associated with liposomal amphotericin B formulations. We describe an 18-year-old woman with aplastic anemia who developed invasive aspergillosis. She began treatment with high-dose (10 mg/kg/day) liposomal amphotericin B at home; however, her condition worsened, and she was hospitalized. Therapy with liposomal amphotericin B was continued until the patient began having symptoms consistent with nephrogenic DI. These symptoms resolved after discontinuation of liposomal amphotericin B; however, after rechallenge with lipid complex amphotericin B (5 mg/kg/day), the symptoms returned. The patient's nephrogenic DI was successfully treated with diuretics. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale score indicated a probable relationship between liposomal amphotericin B and the development of nephrogenic DI. To our knowledge, this is the third report of nephrogenic DI induced by liposomal amphotericin B. This adverse effect is one of many severe adverse effects caused by all formulations of amphotericin B. A clear understanding of these adverse effects is vital for the clinician to successfully weigh the risks and benefits of antifungal therapy.
Insights
High-dose liposomal amphotericin B can cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (DI) in immunocompromised patients. This rare but serious adverse effect requires careful monitoring and management during antifungal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Invasive fungal infections necessitate potent antifungal agents like amphotericin B.
- Conventional amphotericin B is associated with renal toxicity, including nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (DI).
- Liposomal formulations aim to reduce toxicity, but rare adverse effects may still occur.
Observation:
- A case of an 18-year-old aplastic anemia patient with invasive aspergillosis treated with high-dose liposomal amphotericin B.
- The patient developed symptoms consistent with nephrogenic DI, which resolved upon drug discontinuation.
- Rechallenge with lipid complex amphotericin B also triggered DI symptoms, suggesting a probable drug-induced adverse reaction.
Findings:
- The Naranjo scale indicated a probable relationship between liposomal amphotericin B and nephrogenic DI.
- This represents the third reported case of liposomal amphotericin B-induced nephrogenic DI.
- Diuretics were effective in managing the patient's nephrogenic DI.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of the potential for nephrogenic DI with liposomal amphotericin B, even if uncommon.
- Understanding all amphotericin B formulations' adverse effects is crucial for risk-benefit assessment in antifungal treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring for renal adverse events during potent antifungal therapy.
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