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Acute renal failure in a child associated with acyclovir
P Vachvanichsanong1, P Patamasucon, M Malagon
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat-Yai, Thailand.
Pediatric Nephrology (Berlin, Germany)
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Acyclovir treatment for herpetic encephalitis caused acute renal failure in a child. Kidney function recovered with conservative care after discontinuing the antiviral medication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Herpetic encephalitis requires antiviral treatment, often with acyclovir.
- Acyclovir is a common antiviral medication used for herpes virus infections.
- Renal function monitoring is crucial during antiviral therapy.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old boy received intravenous acyclovir for herpetic encephalitis.
- The patient developed acute renal failure despite normal physical findings and urine output.
- Laboratory tests showed elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels.
Findings:
- Acute renal failure occurred following acyclovir administration.
- Renal function parameters (BUN, creatinine) worsened initially after drug discontinuation.
- Kidney function normalized within one week with conservative management and hydration.
Implications:
- Acyclovir can precipitate acute renal failure in pediatric patients.
- Careful monitoring and potential dose adjustment of acyclovir are necessary in children with renal impairment.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant nephrotoxicity surveillance during acyclovir therapy.