Risk for Renal (Kidney) Problems
What is the risk for kidney problems?
The kidneys filter out fluid and electrolytes that you do not need from your body. Treatment for some cancers is the removal of part or all of a kidney. Certain cancer treatments can cause changes in how your kidneys work. These include:
- Chemotherapy: Some chemotherapies that may affect the kidneys are cisplatin, ifosfamide, carboplatin, and methotrexate.
- Radiation therapy: If radiation is directed to your abdomen, it may expose one or both kidneys to radiation.
- Medications: Some medications used to treat graft versus host disease may also affect the kidneys.
Symptoms and When to Call Your Healthcare Team
Often there are no symptoms of kidney problems. If you have symptoms they could be extra fluid in your body and urinating often. You might also have symptoms due to changes in your electrolyte levels like muscle cramps, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in how your brain works, and changes in how your heart beats. This is why it is important to follow up with providers who are aware of your treatment and check how your kidneys are working once a year or as needed. Your team will monitor your kidney function with blood and urine tests.
Prevention and Treatment
Be sure to share your medical history with your team before starting treatment. If you have kidney disease, this may affect the type of treatment you receive.
If you have issues with kidney function during or after treatment, you will have blood tests done to see how your kidneys are working. Tell your healthcare team about all medications that you take so that they can make sure the medications are safe for your kidneys. In some cases, medications, treatments, or procedures are needed to treat poor kidney function related to cancer. A nephrologist (a doctor who specializes in kidney function) will work closely with you and your cancer care team. It is important to follow up with your healthcare team about your kidney function after having cancer. Tell your care team about any symptoms or changes to your health.