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Renal toxicity of anticancer agents targeting HER2 and EGFR

Laura Cosmai1,2,3, Maurizio Gallieni4,5,6, Camillo Porta7,8,9

  • 1Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Istituti Ospitalieri di Cremona, Largo Priori, 1, 26100, Cremona, Italy. lacos@iol.it.

Journal of Nephrology
|September 6, 2015
PubMed

Insights

This review discusses the kidney safety of drugs targeting EGFR and HER2 in cancer. Impaired kidney function or dialysis should not stop these vital cancer treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2) are overexpressed in various cancers, including breast and colon cancer.
  • Targeted therapies inhibiting EGFR and HER2 have been developed as anticancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the renal safety profile of EGFR and HER2 targeted agents.
  • To discuss the clinical use of these agents in patients with impaired renal function or on dialysis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical studies and drug information.
  • Analysis of renal toxicity data for EGFR and HER2 inhibitors.
  • Evaluation of treatment modifications for patients with renal impairment.

Main Results:

  • Renal toxicity is not common with EGFR/HER2 inhibitors but can occur, particularly when combined with chemotherapy.
  • Kidney impairment or dialysis does not necessitate stopping these anticancer treatments.
  • These targeted agents can significantly improve life expectancy in cancer patients.

Conclusions:

  • EGFR and HER2 inhibitors can be safely administered to cancer patients with renal impairment or on dialysis.
  • Renal function should be monitored, but treatment should not be withheld solely based on kidney status.
  • Continued active anti-HER or anti-EGFR treatment is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Keywords:
DialysisEGFR inhibitorsHER2-targeting agentsKidney impairmentKidney toxicity

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