Acquired Fanconi's syndrome associated with tenofovir therapy

Tenofovir (Viread) is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor introduced into the United States in 2001. It is frequently prescribed not only for its efficacy but also for its decreased side effect profile compared with other nucleoside analogs. It is now increasingly recognized as a cause of acquired Fanconi's syndrome (FS) in human immunodeficient individuals. We describe a case of a patient with AIDS, who, after starting tenofovir therapy, developed myalgias, renal failure, and profound electrolyte abnormalities compatible with the classic features of FS. On discontinuation of tenofovir and replacement of electrolytes, the individual improved clinically with normalization of his renal failure and electrolyte abnormalities. With the success of tenofovir in the anti-HIV drug market, practitioners should remain alert to the possibility of the development of FS. Frequent urine, renal, and electrolyte parameters should be measured at regular intervals following initiation of tenofovir therapy.