Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer that affects the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. While the disease primarily affects blood cell production, it can also indirectly impact other organs, including the kidneys. This impact can stem from the disease itself or from the therapies used to treat it.
AML's Direct Impact
In some cases, AML can directly affect the kidneys. This can occur in around 30% of patients with AML when leukemia cells infiltrate the kidneys, hindering their ability to filter waste products from the blood. While this is less common than treatment-related kidney issues, it's a possibility, especially in patients with a high white blood cell count at diagnosis. One study found that a high white blood cell count significantly increased the risk of kidney complications in AML patients.
Treatment-Related Impact
Chemotherapy drugs, a cornerstone of AML treatment, can sometimes damage the kidneys. These powerful medications are designed to kill cancer cells but can also harm healthy cells in the process. The kidneys, responsible for filtering medications from the bloodstream, are particularly vulnerable.
In addition to chemotherapy, other AML treatments like bone marrow transplantation can also pose risks to kidney health. Medications used to prevent complications after transplantation, such as immunosuppressants, antibiotics, or antifungals, can also potentially impact kidney function.
Immunotherapies, like immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy, can also potentially lead to kidney inflammation and damage, though this is less common than with chemotherapy.
It's important to note that not everyone with AML will experience kidney problems. However, understanding the potential risks is crucial for early detection and management.
Kidney problems often develop gradually, with symptoms appearing only when significant damage occurs. Being aware of these symptoms is vital:
You must contact your healthcare team if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and treatment of kidney problems are crucial for preventing further complications.
When discussing kidney problems, you might come across various medical terms that sound complicated. To help clarify, let's break down a few common terms you might encounter in your healthcare journey:
Treatment for kidney complications in AML patients depends on the underlying cause and severity. Options may include:
Treating kidney problems in AML patients can be complex, as decisions must consider both the kidney condition and the underlying cancer. Close collaboration between your oncology team and a kidney specialist (nephrologist) is essential for developing an individualized treatment plan.
Kidney problems can significantly impact the course of AML treatment and overall survival. Studies have shown that patients with pre-existing kidney impairment or those who develop kidney injury during treatment may have:
It's crucial to remember that every patient is different, and the impact of kidney problems can vary widely. Close monitoring of kidney function, early intervention, and careful management of both AML and kidney health are essential for improving outcomes.
Empower yourself by creating a free account on HealthTree Cure Hub. Explore personalized treatment options and clinical trials, track your disease and lab results, and participate in research—all in one place. Join a community dedicated to advancing AML care and improving outcomes. Visit HealthTree Cure Hub to get started today and become a Cure Contributor!
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Sources:
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer that affects the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. While the disease primarily affects blood cell production, it can also indirectly impact other organs, including the kidneys. This impact can stem from the disease itself or from the therapies used to treat it.
AML's Direct Impact
In some cases, AML can directly affect the kidneys. This can occur in around 30% of patients with AML when leukemia cells infiltrate the kidneys, hindering their ability to filter waste products from the blood. While this is less common than treatment-related kidney issues, it's a possibility, especially in patients with a high white blood cell count at diagnosis. One study found that a high white blood cell count significantly increased the risk of kidney complications in AML patients.
Treatment-Related Impact
Chemotherapy drugs, a cornerstone of AML treatment, can sometimes damage the kidneys. These powerful medications are designed to kill cancer cells but can also harm healthy cells in the process. The kidneys, responsible for filtering medications from the bloodstream, are particularly vulnerable.
In addition to chemotherapy, other AML treatments like bone marrow transplantation can also pose risks to kidney health. Medications used to prevent complications after transplantation, such as immunosuppressants, antibiotics, or antifungals, can also potentially impact kidney function.
Immunotherapies, like immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy, can also potentially lead to kidney inflammation and damage, though this is less common than with chemotherapy.
It's important to note that not everyone with AML will experience kidney problems. However, understanding the potential risks is crucial for early detection and management.
Kidney problems often develop gradually, with symptoms appearing only when significant damage occurs. Being aware of these symptoms is vital:
You must contact your healthcare team if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and treatment of kidney problems are crucial for preventing further complications.
When discussing kidney problems, you might come across various medical terms that sound complicated. To help clarify, let's break down a few common terms you might encounter in your healthcare journey:
Treatment for kidney complications in AML patients depends on the underlying cause and severity. Options may include:
Treating kidney problems in AML patients can be complex, as decisions must consider both the kidney condition and the underlying cancer. Close collaboration between your oncology team and a kidney specialist (nephrologist) is essential for developing an individualized treatment plan.
Kidney problems can significantly impact the course of AML treatment and overall survival. Studies have shown that patients with pre-existing kidney impairment or those who develop kidney injury during treatment may have:
It's crucial to remember that every patient is different, and the impact of kidney problems can vary widely. Close monitoring of kidney function, early intervention, and careful management of both AML and kidney health are essential for improving outcomes.
Empower yourself by creating a free account on HealthTree Cure Hub. Explore personalized treatment options and clinical trials, track your disease and lab results, and participate in research—all in one place. Join a community dedicated to advancing AML care and improving outcomes. Visit HealthTree Cure Hub to get started today and become a Cure Contributor!
LOG IN OR CREATE YOUR FREE ACCOUNT
Sources:
about the author
Marta Llobet Canela
Marta deeply believes that understanding how your body works is still a privilege today and that knowledge empowers. Leveraging her 9 years of experience in blood cancer, she translates complex medical jargon into easy-to-understand language, helping HealthTree’s mission to support patients staying informed about their disease and confidently participating in meaningful research. Outside of science, she enjoys trying new restaurants and hiking with her dog, Lia.
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