Mitomycin-associated renal failure. Case report and review

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Mitomycin chemotherapy is a known cause of renal failure.
• This renal failure is often linked to microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.
• However, renal failure can occur without overt hemolysis.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old male patient developed renal failure and anemia.
• These symptoms appeared five months after initiating chemotherapy with mitomycin, fluorouracil, and doxorubicin hydrochloride.
• The patient showed no evidence of hemolysis.

Findings:

• Kidney biopsy revealed fibrin thrombi in glomeruli and small arteries.
• These findings are indicative of thrombotic microangiopathy.
• The patient's condition necessitated maintenance dialysis.

Implications:

• This case underscores mitomycin-induced nephrotoxicity as a critical diagnostic consideration.
• Early recognition and management are crucial for patients undergoing mitomycin chemotherapy.
• Further research into the mechanisms and prevention of this adverse effect is warranted.