Kidney Injury in Patient with Non-small-cell Lung Cancer Receiving Tepotinib

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nephrology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tepotinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Previous reports suggest tepotinib can cause kidney injury via creatinine transporter inhibition.
• Fluid retention is a known side effect of some cancer therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of potential true kidney injury during tepotinib therapy for NSCLC.
• To investigate the mechanism of renal dysfunction in a patient treated with tepotinib.
• To emphasize the importance of monitoring renal function in patients receiving tepotinib.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 68-year-old male patient with advanced NSCLC.
• Patient was treated with tepotinib.
• Clinical data including general edema, hypoalbuminemia, and serum creatinine levels were collected.
• Renal biopsy was performed to evaluate kidney injury.
• Analysis of potential causes including creatinine transporter inhibition and reduced renal blood flow.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with marked general edema, hypoalbuminemia, and elevated serum creatinine.
• Renal biopsy findings indicated tubulointerstitial injury.
• The injury pattern suggested decreased renal blood flow, likely secondary to refractory fluid retention.
• This contrasts with previously reported tepotinib-induced kidney injury mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Tepotinib therapy can lead to true kidney injury beyond direct transporter inhibition.
• Refractory fluid retention may cause secondary renal hypoperfusion and subsequent tubulointerstitial injury.
• Close monitoring and proactive management of renal adverse effects are essential for patients on tepotinib.