Adverse effects of systemic therapy in a patient with urothelial bladder cancer and chronic kidney disease – a case report - Scorecard - MDSpire

Adverse effects of systemic therapy in a patient with urothelial bladder cancer and chronic kidney disease – a case report

  • By

  • Martyna Najmrocka

  • Aleksandra Semeniuk

  • Rafał Stec

  • July 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Complications from Systemic Treatment in a Urothelial Bladder Cancer Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Case Study

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionUrothelial Bladder Cancer
Key MechanismsImmune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) may cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that complicate management in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Target PopulationPatients with locally advanced urothelial carcinoma ineligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy, particularly those with CKD.
Care SettingMultidisciplinary management in oncology, nephrology, endocrinology, neurology, and cardiology.

Key Highlights

  • Nivolumab is an effective adjuvant therapy for cisplatin-ineligible urothelial carcinoma patients.
  • Immune-related adverse events can mimic CKD progression, complicating diagnosis.
  • High-dose glucocorticosteroids can lead to clinical improvement in irAEs.
  • Chronic corticosteroid toxicity and testosterone deficiency were identified in the patient.
  • Multidisciplinary evaluation is crucial for managing complex cases.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Monitor for immune-related adverse events in patients receiving ICIs.

Management

  • Initiate glucocorticosteroids for severe irAEs.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Vigilant monitoring of renal function and symptoms during ICI therapy.

Risks

  • Risk of misdiagnosing irAEs as CKD progression.

Patient & Prescribing Data

72-year-old male with type 2 diabetes and CKD Stage 3.

Nivolumab was administered at 240 mg every two weeks, with subsequent management of irAEs through glucocorticosteroids and testosterone replacement.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Ensure coordinated care among multiple specialties for patients with complex comorbidities.
  • Implement gradual tapering of glucocorticosteroids to manage side effects.

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