BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-induced nephropathy: An under-recognized phenomenon

BCR-ABL TKIs are the standard-of-care treatment for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). While several side-effects of these TKIs are well-known or included on the FDA label, renal adverse drug reactions are not. We recently observed 2 patients with proteinuria and acute kidney injury (AKI) not attributable to other causes that resolved once stopping the BCR-ABL TKI they were receiving. Further investigation into renal ADRs and pre-disposing factors, the impact of dose and duration of treatment on frequency of ADRs, and the extent and permanence of sequelae would help hematologists/oncologists select the best therapy and monitor for ADRs in high-risk patients.