Review of epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors administration to non-small-cell lung cancer patients undergoing hemodialysis

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) causes significant mortality worldwide. Patients with chronic renal failure have an increased risk of developing lung cancer. NSCLC Patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis (HD) often exhibit poor performance, and chemotherapy is generally contraindicated. Oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are effective treatment agents for NSCLC patients. However, the benefits and adverse effects of EGFR-TKIs in NSCLC undergoing HD are known. There are no clinical studies on the effects of EGFR-TKIs on NSCLC patients undergoing HD. We reviewed all previous case reports about EGFR-TKIs in NSCLC patients undergoing HD. It is difficult to design studies about the effects of EGFR-TKIs in patients undergoing HD, and this review is quite important. EGFR-TKIs are well tolerated in patients undergoing HD. The main routes of elimination of EGFR-TKIs are metabolism via the liver, and renal elimination is minor. The recommended doses and pharmacokinetics of these EGFR-TKIs for patients undergoing HD are similar to those for patients with normal renal function. The plasma protein binding of EGFR-TKIs is very high, and it is not necessary to adjust the dose after HD. In conclusion, EGFR-TKIs are effective and well tolerated in patients undergoing HD.