Cancer and Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cancer are two serious and increasingly prevalent diseases. They are interconnected in multiple ways and bidirectionally: cancer can directly or indirectly cause CKD through adverse effects of therapies; conversely, CKD can be a risk factor for cancer. Both conditions may coexist in a patient. The number of cancer patients undergoing hemodialysis is on the rise, presenting a growing challenge for oncologists, nephrologists, and pharmacists worldwide, as there are approximately one million hemodialysis patients. In hemodialysis patients, the concerns are twofold: their renal function is impaired, exposing them to the risk of overdosing and adverse effects. Simultaneously, careful planning of treatment administrations concerning dialysis sessions is necessary to avoid premature drug clearance by dialysis, preventing underdosing and consequently treatment inefficacy. In this article, we present a case of a patient with chronic renal insufficiency undergoing hemodialysis for 16 years, who developed breast cancer. Through this case, we illustrate the challenges encountered in managing such patients and provide a literature review summarizing recommendations.