[Nephropathy associated with electrolyte disorders]

It is well known that renal dysfunction is associated with several types of electrolyte disorders. On the other hand, renal manifestations have been attributed to electrolyte disorders. Hypokalemia is the most frequent electrolyte abnormality encountered in clinical practice. The main cause of hypokalemia is due to abuse of laxatives and diuretics or to anorexia nervosa. Hypercalcemia is another major electrolyte abnormality, associated with numerous renal manifestations. Renal tubules damages and chronic interstitial nephritis are characteristic pathological findings in prolonged electrolyte disorders. The mechanism of renal involvement and characteristic clinical manifestations of the electrolyte disorders are reviewed.