This chapter presents a synthesis of data regarding acute and chronic drugrelated
lesions of the kidneys and urinary tract, as well as the urologic injuries that can
result from diagnostic and/or therapeutic interventions. Reversible or irreversible renal
injuries can be caused by prerenal, intrarenal or postrenal damage. Identification of the
pathomechanism is mandatory for proper treatment of the side effects. Those drugs that
are excreted through the kidneys can induce ischemic or obstructive lesions and can
predispose the patient to stone formation. Analgesic nephropathy is a particular type of
nephritis that can be reversible after drug cessation. Glomerulonephritis can be caused
by several drugs, including vaccines, anti-inflammatory agents and beta blockers.
Regarding surgical interventions, upper urinary tract deterioration can occur following
direct injuries or as a consequence of iatrogenic lumbosacral spinal cord lesions.
Complications relating to peritoneal dialysis are also presented in detail.
Keywords: Adverse drug reaction, Analgesic nephropathy, Azotemia, Cystitis,
dialysis, Glomerulopathy, Hemolysis, Iatrogenic, Kidney, Lithiasis, Nephritis,
Papillary necrosis, Percutaneous intervention, Urinary tract, Vasculitis.
