radiation nephritis

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is an example of an interstial nephritis.

Acute radiation nephritis ccurs within 1 year of radiotherapy. Features include hypertension, anaemia, proteinuria and haematuria.

Chronic radiation nephritis:

  • this may occur after acute radiation nephritis; alternatively chronic radiation nephritis may present with hypertension, anaemia, proteinuria or end-stage renal failure 2-5 years after radiotherapy treatment

Treatment:

  • treatment of hypertension
  • if end-stage renal therapy then renal replacement therapy e.g. haemodialysis

Prevention:

  • during radiotherapy, ensure adequate shielding (or exclusion) of renal areas