Rosuvastatin-induced acute interstitial nephritis.
Francesco Londrino1, Tito Zattera, Valeria Falqui
1Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Ospedale S. Andrea, La Spezia, Italy.
Case Reports in Nephrology and Urology
|October 30, 2013
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) in an elderly male, likely caused by rosuvastatin. Prompt withdrawal of the statin and corticosteroid treatment led to full kidney function recovery.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Statins are widely prescribed for cardiovascular disease prevention.
- Acute kidney injury (AKI) significantly increases patient morbidity and mortality.
- Drug-induced acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a potential cause of AKI.
Observation:
- An 83-year-old male developed acute renal failure after initiating rosuvastatin therapy.
- Kidney biopsy revealed interstitial infiltrates and tubulitis, indicative of AIN.
- The patient presented with mild proteinuria and minimal urinary sediment.
Findings:
- Rosuvastatin was identified as the probable cause of AIN.
- Discontinuation of rosuvastatin and a 4-week course of prednisolone resulted in complete renal function recovery.
- This is the first reported case of rosuvastatin-induced AIN.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider AIN as a potential adverse effect of rosuvastatin.
- Early recognition and management of drug-induced AIN are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Awareness of this side effect is important given the widespread use of statins.
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