Adverse kidney effects of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2017 Jul 1;32(7):1089-1097. doi: 10.1093/ndt/gfw467.

Abstract

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is implicated in various malignancies. The past decade has seen the development and widespread use of EGFR inhibitors for the successful treatment of such cancers. Available EGFR inhibitors include small molecule tyrosine-kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies. Class-related renal adverse events result in dual toxicity including tubular/electrolyte disorders and glomerulopathies. Tubular injury is common and mainly due to monoclonal antibodies while glomerulopathy is rare and related to various anti-EGFR agents. The exact pathogenesis of anti-EGFR agents associated with kidney disorders remains to be elucidated.

Keywords: EGFR; electrolyte; glomerulopathy; hypomagnesemia; onconephrology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / etiology*
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • EGFR protein, human
  • ErbB Receptors