Analgesic abuse in urological practice

Thirty-three patients seen in a urological department had taken large doses of analgesic for prolonged periods of time. In 9 cases a diagnosis of pyramidal necrosis was established, while 4 other had pyelographic evidence of pyelonephritis, and analgesic abuse was probably an important aetiological factor in their renal condition. Analgesic nephropathy is easily overlooked unless patients are questioned routinely regarding their intake of analgesic. It is important to identify the group of patients without evidence of serious renal disease who are taking excessive quantities of analgesic and to urge them to abandon the practice.