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Published on: September 18, 2013

Acute renal failure with acyclovir treatment in a child with leukemia

Gürkan Genc1, Ozan Ozkaya, Yonca Acikgöz

  • 1Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Ondokuz Mayis University Faculty of Medicine, Samsun, Turkey. gencdoc@yahoo.com

Drug and Chemical Toxicology
|March 24, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Acyclovir can cause kidney damage even in well-hydrated children, leading to acute renal failure. Monitoring renal function during acyclovir treatment is crucial for early detection of potential nephrotoxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Acyclovir is a widely used antiviral medication.
  • Adverse effects, including nephrotoxicity, are known, particularly with high doses or dehydration.

Observation:

  • A 6-year-old boy with leukemia developed nonoliguric acute renal failure while receiving acyclovir.
  • The patient was adequately hydrated and had no prior kidney issues or other symptoms.

Findings:

  • Laboratory tests and dimercaptosuccinic acid scintigraphy indicated impaired proximal and distal tubule function.
  • This suggests acyclovir-induced nephrotoxicity affecting multiple parts of the kidney tubules.

Implications:

  • Healthcare providers should monitor renal function closely in patients treated with acyclovir.
  • Asymptomatic nephrotoxicity should be considered as a potential adverse effect, even in pediatric patients with normal hydration.

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