Medication-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Children

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of this article is to review common mechanisms of drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) while highlighting some of the common medications in each category, as well as risk factors and preventative strategies with a focus on mitigating the risks of kidney injury with the use of potentially nephrotoxic medications in children.Recent FindingsThere have been recent reports about DIN associated with well-established and newer medications based on pathogenic mechanisms, new biomarkers being researched to identify DIN, and the recent development of standardized phenotypes to characterize DIN.SummaryThe kidney is a common site of drug toxicity and can occur in all age groups, including children, although the body of evidence characterizing DIN is limited compared with adults. Several drugs and drug classes can cause nephrotoxicity by one or more mechanisms. It is important for clinicians to recognize the risks for development of DIN so that appropriate monitoring and preventative measures can be implemented when the use of potentially nephrotoxic medications is necessary.
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research