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Methotrexate induced pneumatosis intestinalis under hemodialysis patient
Akira Mima1, Dai Nagahara1, Kosuke Tansho1
1Department of Nephrology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Nara, Japan.
Abstract:
Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare disorder characterized by the gas within the intestinal mucosa. This is the first report methotrexate (MTX) induced PI under hemodialysis (HD) patient. A 46-year-old man suffered rheumatoid arthritis and underwent HD at local HD center. After the initial induction of MTX, the patient showed epigastralgia and diarrhea. He was referred to our hospital and abdominal computed tomography showed significant large intestinal edema and free intraperitoneal air consistent with PI. Physicians should aware that MTX is contraindication drug for chronic kidney disease and high-flux HD may decrease MTX toxicity and oxidative stress, improving PI.
Insights
Methotrexate (MTX) can induce pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). High-flux HD may mitigate MTX toxicity, potentially improving this rare gastrointestinal condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare condition involving gas in the intestinal wall.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a medication used for autoimmune diseases.
- Hemodialysis (HD) is a treatment for kidney failure.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis on HD developed epigastric pain and diarrhea after starting MTX.
- Abdominal CT revealed significant intestinal edema and free intraperitoneal air, indicative of PI.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of MTX-induced PI in a patient undergoing hemodialysis.
- MTX is generally contraindicated in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Implications:
- Physicians should exercise caution when prescribing MTX to patients with chronic kidney disease, especially those on HD.
- High-flux HD might reduce MTX toxicity and oxidative stress, potentially offering a protective effect against PI.
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