Topical use of cidofovir induced acute renal failure

Background. Cidofovir has antiviral activity against a wide spectrum of DNA viruses. Several small studies have focused on the efficacy of topical cidofovir in various viral-induced diseases. We report a systemic complication of such therapy. Case report. A bone marrow transplant recipient with chronic renal failure developed genital condylomas resistant to standard therapy. After topical cidofovir application (1% once daily for 5 days, then 4% for 12 days), the lesions improved while local erosions appeared. Acute renal failure with features of tubular acidosis occurred at day 19. Spontaneous recovery was observed after cidofovir withdrawal. Conclusion. We describe for the first time acute renal failure after topical cidofovir in an immunosuppressed patient with prior renal insufficiency. This method of administration should be avoided on abraded skin and should be carefully monitored.