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Acute Kidney Injury Associated With Red Yeast Rice (Beni-kōji) Supplement: A Report of Two Cases
Kiyotaka Uchiyama1, Masako Otani2, Naoki Chigusa1
1Department of Nephrology, International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital, Chiba, Japan.
Kidney Medicine
|November 7, 2024
Summary
Red yeast rice supplements, like Beni-kōji CholesteHelp, have been linked to serious kidney injury. Discontinuation of these products led to recovery of kidney function in reported cases.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Toxicology
- Functional Foods
Background:
- Beni-kōji, a functional food derived from red yeast rice, is used for cholesterol management.
- Numerous health concerns, particularly kidney injury, have been associated with its consumption.
Observation:
- Two cases of severe kidney injury are presented following the use of Beni-kōji CholesteHelp.
- Case 1: Developed Fanconi syndrome and hypertension, with a significant drop in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
- Case 2: Experienced severe kidney injury requiring hemodialysis, with biopsy showing tubular injury.
Findings:
- Beni-kōji consumption is associated with acute tubular toxicity.
- Kidney function improved after discontinuing the red yeast rice supplement.
- Histopathological findings revealed tubular degeneration and injury in both cases.
Implications:
- Beni-kōji supplements pose a risk of nephrotoxicity.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact causative agent and mechanism of kidney injury.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of potential adverse renal effects associated with red yeast rice products.
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