Nephrotoxin

Nephrotoxin is a toxin that either is produced in the kidneys or has its effect in the kidneys. The term comes from the Greek words nephros (kidney) and toxikon (poison). Nephrotoxins are substances displaying nephrotoxicity.

Nephrotoxicity is one of the most common kidney problems and occurs when the body is exposed to a drug or toxin that causes damage to the kidneys. When kidney damage occurs, you are unable to rid your body of excess urine, and wastes. Your blood electrolytes (such as potassium, and phosphate) may also increase due to the decrease in kidney function.

Types of Nephrotoxins[edit | edit source]

Nephrotoxins can be classified into two categories: Endogenous nephrotoxins and Exogenous nephrotoxins.

Endogenous Nephrotoxins[edit | edit source]

Endogenous nephrotoxins are toxins that are produced within the body. Examples include myoglobin, hemoglobin, uric acid, and calcium.

Exogenous Nephrotoxins[edit | edit source]

Exogenous nephrotoxins are toxins that enter the body from the outside, for example through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Examples include certain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aminoglycoside antibiotics, and radiographic contrast agents), heavy metals, and organic solvents.

Effects of Nephrotoxins[edit | edit source]

Nephrotoxins can cause a variety of kidney diseases, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and tubulointerstitial nephritis. They can also cause abnormalities in urine production (such as oliguria or polyuria), disturbances in electrolyte and acid-base balance, and alterations in kidney function tests.

Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Prevention of nephrotoxicity involves avoiding or limiting exposure to nephrotoxins, maintaining good hydration, and monitoring kidney function in people at risk. Treatment of nephrotoxicity depends on the cause and may include discontinuation of the nephrotoxic drug or toxin, supportive care, and in some cases, kidney transplantation.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Nephrotoxin Resources
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