Bibliometric analysis of immune-related acute kidney injury induced by cancer immunotherapy (2000-2025).

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy but are increasingly linked to immune-related kidney injury (irKI). This study presents the first bibliometric analysis of irKI research (2000-2025), aiming to identify key trends, mechanistic insights, and pharmacological risk factors. We analyzed 2,179 publications to understand the evolution of irKI research, focusing on areas like T cell-mediated tubular injury, immune system-driven inflammation, and changes in metabolism. Co-prescription of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and proton pump inhibitors has been identified as a pharmacological risk factor. Biomarkers such as KIM-1 and CXCL9, as well as novel imaging modalities, have shown diagnostic promise but remain underutilized. We also observed a lack of nephrotoxicity profiling for newer therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T). This study highlights gaps in research and collaboration, particularly the need for better understanding of pharmacological risk factors like NSAID and proton pump inhibitor co-prescription. Future research should focus on improving strategies for predicting, diagnosing, and managing irKI. The study also emphasizes immune-driven inflammation, T cell-mediated tubular injury, and metabolic reprogramming as key contributors to irKI pathogenesis. Additionally, underutilized biomarkers (e.g., KIM-1, CXCL9) and emerging imaging techniques offer opportunities for early detection and monitoring.