Which organ is commonly affected by Amphotericin B leading to nephrotoxicity?

Which organ is commonly affected by Amphotericin B leading to nephrotoxicity?

• A. Liver
• B. Heart
• C. Kidneys
• D. Lungs

Answer: (C)

Amphotericin B is notorious for causing kidney injury; the kidneys are the organ most commonly affected. It can injure renal tubular cells and cause afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction, which lowers renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. This leads to rising BUN and creatinine and electrolyte losses such as potassium and magnesium. Clinically, watch for reduced urine output and electrolyte disturbances, and monitor renal function and electrolytes closely during therapy. Hydration helps, and using liposomal formulations or adjusting the dose can reduce nephrotoxicity. Hepatic, cardiac, or pulmonary toxicity is not the primary risk with this drug, which is why the kidneys are the correct focus.

Amphotericin B is notorious for causing kidney injury; the kidneys are the organ most commonly affected. It can injure renal tubular cells and cause afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction, which lowers renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. This leads to rising BUN and creatinine and electrolyte losses such as potassium and magnesium. Clinically, watch for reduced urine output and electrolyte disturbances, and monitor renal function and electrolytes closely during therapy. Hydration helps, and using liposomal formulations or adjusting the dose can reduce nephrotoxicity. Hepatic, cardiac, or pulmonary toxicity is not the primary risk with this drug, which is why the kidneys are the correct focus.