Predictors and Treatment of Platinum Induced Nephrotoxicity

The platinum-based drugs cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin are widely used in the treatment of various malignancies. Nephrotoxicity due to these platinum based drugs is an important factor limiting the therapeutic usefulness of these compounds. Drug-induced nephrotoxicity may affect any component of the nephron structure such as the glomerulus, tubules, and renal microvasculature [1]. Renal toxicity impedes effective cancer therapy and can impact the quality of life of cancer patients. This chapter is intended as a guide for recognition of risk factors that may predispose to nephrotoxicity due to platinum based agents and its early diagnosis and treatment.