Kidney Function Deteriorates Long After Childhood Cancer

Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk for premature chronic renal failure as their glomerular function continues to deteriorate, according to a study of 1,122 childhood-cancer survivors aged 18 years and older.

After a median follow-up of 21 years after cancer diagnosis, glomerular function deteriorated over time in all subjects, particularly those treated with higher doses of cisplatin, researchers reported in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention (2013;22:1736-1746).

Cisplatin, ifosfamide, and nephrectomy were associated with worse glomerular function that persisted during the entire follow-up period. Survivors treated with potentially nephrotoxic medications had a significantly lower glomerular filration rate and higher glomerular dysfunction probability up to 35 years after cancer diagnosis compared with survivors who did not undergo nephrotoxic therapy.

From the November 01, 2013 Issue of Renal and Urology News