Nefrotoxicidade dos aminoglicosídeos

Abstract

Aminoglycosides are frequently used due to their high efficacy against gram-negative bacteria and their positive synergism with other antibiotics against gram-positive organisms. They are commonly used for the prevention and treatment of infectious complications after cardiothoracic surgery. The principal side effect of this class of antibiotics is nephrotoxicity, which may occur in up to 20% of exposed patients. Although usually reversible, aminoglycosideinduced renal injury prolongs hospitalization time and increases patient cost. Even more important, the occurrence of nephrotoxicity is associated with higher patient mortality. There are some known risk factors for nephrotoxicity development and some measures that may prevent it. This review will cover the most relevant aspects of this important side effect of aminoglycoside therapy.