Renal disease associated with toluene inhalation

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Inhalant abuse, particularly toluene-containing substances, is a growing public health concern.
• Toluene is a common solvent found in paints, glues, and cleaning agents.

Observation:

• A 32-year-old woman presented with severe quadriparesis, hypokalemia, and distal renal tubular acidosis.
• Her symptoms developed after one week of intentional toluene inhalation (paint sniffing).

Findings:

• Literature review reveals a spectrum of renal diseases associated with toluene inhalation.
• This case highlights distal renal tubular acidosis and hypokalemia as potential consequences.

Implications:

• Toluene-induced nephrotoxicity should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained renal disorders in young patients.
• Early recognition and cessation of toluene exposure are crucial for managing and potentially reversing these toxic effects.