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Partial reversibility of cisplatin nephrotoxicity in children

P R Brock1, D E Koliouskas, T M Barratt

  • 1Department of Haematology, Hospital for Sick Children, London, England.

Insights

Most children recover some kidney function after cisplatin treatment, particularly if damage isn't severe. However, low magnesium levels may persist long-term in pediatric cancer patients receiving cisplatin therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Cisplatin is a vital chemotherapy agent used in pediatric oncology.
  • Long-term renal toxicity is a significant concern for children treated with cisplatin.
  • Understanding the recovery trajectory of kidney function is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the long-term impact of cisplatin on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in children.
  • To identify persistent renal abnormalities, such as hypomagnesemia, following cisplatin therapy.
  • To evaluate factors influencing renal function recovery after treatment cessation.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal study of 40 children treated with cisplatin, with follow-up at least 18 months post-treatment.
  • Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimated using chromium 51-labeled ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid plasma clearance.
  • Serum magnesium levels measured in a subset of patients at follow-up.

Main Results:

  • Most children showed improvement in GFR, especially those with less severe initial damage.
  • A median GFR improvement of 22 ml/min/1.73 m2 was observed in children with end-of-treatment GFR < 80 ml/min/1.73 m2.
  • Hypomagnesemia was present in 6 of 21 children, independent of GFR, and may persist.

Conclusions:

  • Children generally exhibit partial recovery of cisplatin-induced glomerular toxicity.
  • Renal function recovery is more likely when the initial damage is not severe.
  • Persistent hypomagnesemia is a notable long-term side effect in some pediatric patients treated with cisplatin.

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