Acute Kidney Injury and Fanconi Syndrome Caused by a Red Yeast Rice Supplement

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Toxicology
• Dietary Supplements

Background:

• Red yeast rice is a popular dietary supplement.
• Concerns exist regarding the safety and regulation of supplements.
• Acute kidney injury and Fanconi syndrome are serious renal conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of acute kidney injury and Fanconi syndrome linked to red yeast rice.
• To highlight the potential nephrotoxic effects of unregulated supplements.
• To emphasize the importance of vigilant patient monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 72-year-old woman.
• Clinical presentation including rising serum creatinine, metabolic acidosis, proteinuria, hematuria, and glucosuria.
• Renal biopsy with histopathological examination and CD10 immunostaining.
• Treatment involved supplement discontinuation and steroid pulse therapy.

Main Results:

• The patient developed acute kidney injury (serum creatinine from 0.7 to 3.97 mg/dL) and Fanconi syndrome.
• Kidney biopsy revealed proximal tubular injury.
• CD10 staining confirmed proximal tubule involvement.
• Clinical improvement was observed after intervention.

Conclusions:

• Red yeast rice supplements can be associated with severe kidney damage.
• Unregulated dietary supplements pose significant health risks.
• Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing supplement-induced nephrotoxicity.