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Nephrotic Syndrome and Acute Renal Failure Apparently Induced by Sunitinib
Ying-Shou Chen1, Chien-Liang Chen, Jyh-Seng Wang
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Abstract:
We report a case of nephrotic syndrome and acute renal failure apparently induced by sunitinib. A 67-year-old man with a history of metastatic renal cell carcinoma presented with progressive kidney dysfunction with proteinuria, general edema, and body weight gain of 21 kg after undergoing 3 weeks of sunitinib therapy. The patient had taken no other over-the-counter medications, and all other possible causes of nephrotic syndrome were excluded. The Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale score for this event was 6, indicating a high probability that the observed presentations were associated with use of the drug. However, despite the discontinuation of sunitinib, his condition deteriorated, and hemodialysis was initiated for respiratory distress. A renal biopsy was performed, which revealed ischemic acute tubular necrosis with minimal change nephropathy. In conclusion, nephrologists and oncologists should be aware that nephrotic syndrome with ischemic acute tubular necrosis is a possible adverse effect of sunitinib. For early diagnosis of this condition and to avoid renal damage, we recommend differential diagnosis of serum creatinine and proteinuria in patients undergoing sunitinib therapy.
Insights
Sunitinib may cause nephrotic syndrome and acute kidney injury in cancer patients. Early monitoring of kidney function and proteinuria is crucial to prevent severe renal damage during sunitinib therapy.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sunitinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
- Nephrotic syndrome and acute renal failure are serious potential adverse events.
- This case highlights a severe adverse drug reaction in a patient undergoing sunitinib treatment.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old male with metastatic renal cell carcinoma developed nephrotic syndrome and acute kidney injury after 3 weeks of sunitinib.
- Symptoms included proteinuria, edema, and significant weight gain, with other causes excluded.
- The Naranjo scale indicated a high probability of a drug-induced adverse event.
Findings:
- Despite sunitinib discontinuation, the patient's condition worsened, requiring hemodialysis.
- Renal biopsy revealed ischemic acute tubular necrosis with minimal change nephropathy.
- This suggests a direct link between sunitinib and severe renal pathology.
Implications:
- Nephrologists and oncologists must be aware of sunitinib-induced nephrotic syndrome and acute tubular necrosis.
- Regular monitoring of serum creatinine and proteinuria is recommended for patients on sunitinib.
- Early detection and intervention are key to mitigating renal damage from this drug.
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