Powered By
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
If you have leukemia, your kidneys may not be the first thing on your mind. But many types of leukemia (and their treatments) can impact kidney function. These effects may be temporary or long-lasting. And in some cases, they’re preventable.
Kidney disease is poor kidney function that can worsen over time. In severe cases, it leads to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Managing your kidney health on top of leukemia can feel overwhelming. But with the right information and support, you can take control.
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It causes an overgrowth of abnormal white blood cells that can travel to different parts of the body, including the kidneys.
The kidneys filter waste from the blood into the urine. They also help maintain your body’s fluid balance. Leukemia can increase the kidney’s workload by overproducing cells that need to be filtered. In addition, some leukemia treatments, such as chemotherapy, can damage the kidneys.
During leukemia treatment, cancer cells are destroyed and broken down rapidly. They’re released into the bloodstream and need to be filtered in the urine. This condition, known as tumor lysis syndrome, can overload the kidneys.
Other side effects from leukemia treatment can also impact the kidneys. Close monitoring can help catch signs of problems early.
People with leukemia may also develop kidney disease years after leukemia treatment. Kidney disease is more common as people get older. Exposure to harsh treatments for cancer and after bone marrow transplants can be an added risk factor.
Even if you feel like leukemia is behind you, it’s worthwhile to keep your kidney health in mind. A history of cancer means your body has had added stress. It’s that much more important to be mindful of your health.
There are several types of leukemia. Some are linked to higher risks of kidney damage than others. Here are a few examples.
In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), abnormal white blood cells known as lymphocytes can disrupt the kidneys’ delicate filtration system. These cells can also trigger immune responses and inflammation that harm the kidneys.
Members of MyLeukemiaTeam have shared their experiences with CLL and kidney disease. Some members believe the cause of their leukemia is also what’s affected their kidneys. “Agent Orange exposure is kicking my butt!” wrote one member. “Not only CLL, but also skin cancers, chronic kidney disease, and just recently a benign tumor was found in my lower back, pressing on my spine.”
Preexisting kidney disease can also complicate CLL treatment. Another member who had kidney disease before CLL treatment explained their challenges.
“CLL treatment caused my creatinine [a waste product filtered by kidneys] levels to rise. I started on it 10 months ago. I had baseline chronic kidney disease stage 3b and advanced to stage 4 in the last eight months. I was also taking an antiviral, which can bump up creatinine levels more,” they explained.
Another member responded, “Please make sure your oncologist is watching this. The nurse caught this because I’m in a study, and they call me once a month to see how I’m doing.”
Fortunately, most CLL treatments aren’t considered dangerous for the kidneys. Your healthcare team will weigh the cost and benefit of your leukemia treatment options. They can also monitor your kidneys’ response to treatment and make changes as needed.
Both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can lead to kidney problems. About 30 percent of people with AML have problems with leukemia cells getting in the way of filtration in the kidneys.
Tumor lysis syndrome is one concern. Your healthcare team may advise you to drink plenty of water to help keep your kidneys healthy when using certain medications.
One member shared, “Finally started treatment on Wednesday with blood tests to follow. I have to drink a minimum of 56 ounces of water a day. Still getting used to that. It’s a lot of water for me.”
Another responded, “The reason for the copious amount of water is to keep the dead cancer cells from building up in your body, causing tumor lysis syndrome. The water will keep things flushing out, so you should be able to tolerate treatment well. Try putting slices of cucumber or strawberries or lemon/lime slices in the water. It helps!”
People with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are at risk for kidney disease due to treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) which may affect kidney function in some cases.
Managing both leukemia and kidney disease isn’t easy. Here are some simple strategies you can use to protect your kidneys.
Kidney disease can progress without anyone noticing. But there are some key symptoms to watch for, including:
If you notice any of these signs, let your care team know right away. Getting medical attention early can make a big difference.
Regular monitoring can check how your kidneys are doing. Blood tests and urine tests may spot the early signs of kidney damage. These screenings are especially important if you already have impaired kidneys or if you’re using a treatment that’s known to stress the kidneys.
Leukemia may mean you’re seeing a variety of doctors and specialists. It’s essential for all of your providers to have access to your latest screening results and treatment plan.
You can promote good communication by asking your providers if they’ve received any updates from the rest of your care team. Keep track of details, such as your medications, supplements, symptoms, and treatment plan, so you can share them yourself during visits.
Many medications can affect your kidneys, even some that you buy over the counter. Check in with your doctor before using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while having cancer treatment. Also be sure to double-check about any supplements and herbal products you’re thinking about using. These may interact with your other treatments or put added stress on your kidneys.
Along with your doctors and nurses, pharmacists can help you understand the risks and side effects of medication and supplements.
Most people with kidney disease should cut back on salt (sodium). In some cases, watching your protein intake and other micronutrients (such as potassium and phosphorus) is also necessary.
That being said, many people struggle with appetite and digestive issues during cancer treatment. You can work with a registered dietitian to help make sure you’re not being too restrictive, depending on your needs.
Hydration is good for the kidneys. But some people with advanced kidney disease are advised to limit fluid intake. Pay attention to your healthcare provider’s guidance based on your kidney function.
Leukemia itself, leukemia treatment, and kidney disease can all take a toll on your immune system. Specifically, getting a urinary tract infection can be another setback, damaging your kidneys further if it’s not treated.
Take basic steps to protect yourself, including:
Advances in leukemia treatment have helped people with leukemia live longer lives. As a result, aging puts them at a higher risk of kidney disease over time.
It’s important not to lose sight of your overall health when you’re focused on leukemia treatment. High blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes are two common risk factors for kidney disease. Healthy habits, like eating well, staying active, and minimizing alcohol intake, are essential to support your body long after a cancer diagnosis.
Regular monitoring is important. But certain symptoms need immediate medical attention, including:
These could be signs of kidney failure that shouldn’t be ignored. Call 911 or head to the hospital if you’re having these issues.
On MyLeukemiaTeam, people share their experiences with leukemia, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Are you or a loved one living with both leukemia and kidney disease? Let others know in the comments below.
Get updates directly to your inbox.
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Become a member to get even more
Join
This is a member-feature!
Sign up for free to view article comments.
We'd love to hear from you! Please share your name and email to post and read comments.
You'll also get the latest articles directly to your inbox.