Relationship between renal dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients...

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Hematology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Foscarnet is a key antiviral agent for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
• Renal dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities are known adverse events associated with foscarnet therapy.
• Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients are a vulnerable population requiring effective CMV treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between foscarnet-induced renal dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities in HSCT patients.
• To identify specific electrolyte disturbances associated with worsening kidney function.
• To provide data that may enhance the safe use of foscarnet in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 32 HSCT patients treated with foscarnet for CMV infection.
• Patients were categorized into groups based on the development of renal dysfunction (grade 2 or higher).
• Incidence of hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and hypomagnesemia was assessed; correlations between creatinine and electrolytes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The renal dysfunction group showed high incidences of hypocalcemia (45.5%), hypokalemia (18.2%), and hypomagnesemia (27.3%).
• Significant inverse correlations were found between serum creatinine and calcium (r = -0.458, p=0.0244).
• Significant inverse correlations were also observed between serum creatinine and potassium (r = -0.520, p=0.0092).

Conclusions:

• Renal dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities are closely linked in HSCT patients receiving foscarnet.
• Monitoring electrolytes is crucial during foscarnet treatment to mitigate risks associated with renal impairment.
• These findings support proactive management strategies to improve foscarnet treatment safety.