Cytosine arabinoside and daunorubicin induction therapy in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia on chronic hemodialysis

The combination of daunorubicin and cytarabine is the cornerstone of induction therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Little data are available on the optimal chemotherapy regimen for patients with AML and advanced renal failure, with some authors recommending administration of reduced daunorubicin doses. We report the case of a 54-year-old AML patient on chronic hemodialysis who was treated with a modified induction regimen with reduced-dose daunorubin. Daunorubicin levels were measured during the treatment schedule. Although daunorubicin terminal t1/2 appears to be unaffected in hemodialysis patients, the estimated 0–23 h area under the curve was comparable with that of patients receiving full-dose daunorubicin. Therefore, dose adjustment in this patient group may be prudent.