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Published on: September 1, 2016
Rifampicin-associated intravascular haemolysis causing acute kidney injury
P Aravindhmozhi1, Tanuj Moses Lamech2, Charankumar Swamikkannu1
1Department of Nephrology Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Drug-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a rare adverse effect of rifampicin, and is mostly related to acute tubular necrosis and acute interstitial nephritis. We report a sputum- positive, isoniazid mono-resistant, pulmonary tuberculosis patient who had a history of anti-tuberculous therapy (ATT) intake 30 years ago. The patient developed AKI requiring dialysis when he restarted the ATT recently. A renal biopsy was consistent with pigment-cast nephropathy secondary to rifampicin-induced intravascular haemolysis. Rifampicin was stopped, and the patient underwent a total of four dialysis sessions and subsequently recovered.
Insights
Rifampicin can cause rare kidney injury, even years after initial exposure. This case highlights pigment-cast nephropathy from rifampicin-induced hemolysis in a tuberculosis patient requiring dialysis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Drug-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a known, though rare, adverse effect of rifampicin.
- Commonly, rifampicin-induced AKI presents as acute tubular necrosis or acute interstitial nephritis.
Observation:
- A patient with isoniazid mono-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis, with prior anti-tuberculous therapy (ATT) history, restarted ATT.
- The patient developed AKI necessitating dialysis upon restarting ATT.
Findings:
- Renal biopsy revealed pigment-cast nephropathy.
- This was secondary to intravascular hemolysis induced by rifampicin.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for delayed or idiosyncratic reactions to rifampicin, leading to severe AKI.
- Early recognition and cessation of rifampicin are crucial for recovery in cases of drug-induced hemolysis and nephropathy.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
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