Lanthanum Gastropathy in Gastrectomy Specimen: A Case Report

Lanthanum carbonate (LC) is a phosphate binder used in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with few adverse effects due to poor systemic absorption. Gastrointestinal deposition is likely due to alterations in epithelial permeability from inflammation in ESRD. It is challenging to detect in cases with minimal deposition and may be missed on endoscopy and biopsy. A 36-year-old with ESRD who was evaluated for gastrectomy was found to have LC deposition histologically. Years later, the excised portion had similar findings. This case allows for evaluation of LC gastropathy in a resection specimen, providing the opportunity to showcase its unique pathology features.