Natural medicines causing acute kidney injury

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Increasing global use of plant and animal-derived alternative remedies with variable sources and compositions.
• Lack of standardized testing for efficacy and safety, unknown ingredients, and unverified dosages characterize these products.
• Potential adulteration with toxic chemicals and mistaken plant identity contribute to product toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight acute kidney injury (AKI) as a critical manifestation of alternative remedy toxicity.
• To discuss the challenges in diagnosing and managing AKI from these sources.
• To emphasize the need for increased physician awareness and public regulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations and pathological renal lesions associated with alternative remedy consumption.
• Analysis of diagnostic challenges, including patient history and multi-organ involvement.
• Discussion of factors contributing to high mortality rates.

Main Results:

• Acute kidney injury, including acute tubular necrosis, cortical necrosis, and interstitial nephritis, is a common renal manifestation.
• Patients frequently present late with multi-organ dysfunction, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
• High mortality rates are associated with delayed diagnosis and management.

Conclusions:

• Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for alternative remedy toxicity in patients with AKI.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Public education and regulatory oversight are essential to mitigate the risks associated with these remedies.