Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
09:02
A Large Animal Model for Acute Kidney Injury by Temporary Bilateral Renal Artery Occlusion
Published on: February 2, 2021
Acute Kidney Injury Associated With Boswellia serrata for Radiation Necrosis
Michael Li1, Maryam Daftarian2, Manik Chahal3
1Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Practical Radiation Oncology
|July 6, 2026
Summary
Boswellia serrata, used for inflammation, may cause acute kidney injury. This case report highlights the potential risks of this herbal supplement, emphasizing the need for medical supervision during its use.
Area of Science:
- Herbal Medicine
- Nephrology
- Oncology
Background:
- Boswellia serrata is an herbal product with anti-inflammatory properties.
- It is commonly used for inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Radiation necrosis is a known complication of cranial radiation therapy (RT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with Boswellia serrata use.
- To investigate a potential adverse effect of Boswellia serrata not previously documented.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 72-year-old female patient.
- Clinical observation and patient history detailing Boswellia serrata intake for radiation necrosis management.
- Monitoring of kidney function after discontinuation of the supplement.
Main Results:
- The patient developed acute kidney injury after eight days of taking Boswellia serrata capsules.
- Kidney function improved and symptoms resolved after discontinuing the supplement.
- This represents the first reported instance of acute kidney injury linked to Boswellia serrata.
Conclusions:
- Boswellia serrata may be a potential cause of acute kidney injury, particularly at high doses.
- Close medical supervision is recommended for patients using Boswellia serrata, especially those with pre-existing conditions or undergoing cancer treatment.
- Further research is warranted to understand the nephrotoxic potential of Boswellia serrata.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Accurate diagnosis and effective prevention are critical in managing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), which is linked to high mortality rates ranging from 10% to 80%. Timely recognition of at-risk patients and careful monitoring can significantly reduce the likelihood of kidney damage.Diagnostic Assessments:The diagnostic process starts with a comprehensive medical history to identify prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal causes.Prerenal causes, such as dehydration, hypotension, or blood loss, should...
01:22Acute Kidney Injury VI: Nursing Management
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) results in an inability to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance. Effective nursing management is critical in improving patient outcomes and includes comprehensive patient assessment and targeted interventions.Comprehensive Patient AssessmentA detailed history collection is essential, focusing on any recent infections, nephrotoxic medication use, or chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes that may contribute to AKI. During the physical...
01:29Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Acute kidney injury (AKI) causes are categorized into three primary categories based on the location of the injury: prerenal, intrarenal (or intrinsic), and postrenal causes. This classification guides clinical management and illustrates how different pathways can impair kidney function.Etiology and Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney Injury1. Prerenal causesEtiology: Prerenal Acute Kidney Injury, the most common type, occurs when reduced blood flow to the kidneys decreases filtration capacity...
01:22Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Introduction:Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) describes a swift decrease in kidney function occurring over hours to days, characterized by the kidneys' failure to remove waste products from the bloodstream. This leads to dangerous complications like metabolic acidosis, fluid overload, and electrolyte imbalances, such as hyperkalemia, which can cause life-threatening arrhythmias. AKI is common in both hospital and outpatient settings, often triggered by dehydration, sepsis, or exposure to nephrotoxic...
01:20Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) requires a collaborative healthcare approach to restore renal function and prevent complications. Essential management strategies involve monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance, adjusting medications, initiating dialysis when necessary, and providing nutritional support.Fluid and Electrolyte ManagementFluid Monitoring: Regularly monitoring body weight, central venous pressure, and urine output helps detect fluid imbalances early. Patient intake and output are...
01:26Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure
Preoperative ManagementThe primary goals of preoperative management in kidney transplantation are to optimize the patient’s metabolic state and prepare them for surgery through diet adjustments, necessary dialysis, and tailored medical treatment. This phase also involves comprehensive infection screening and patient education about the surgical procedure and postoperative care to improve outcomes and adherence.Medical ManagementA comprehensive evaluation is required for both the living donor...