Ciprofloxacin-induced granulomatous interstitial nephritis and localized elastolysis

Ciprofloxacin is known to cause acute interstitial nephritis. We report the first case of ciprofloxacin-induced granulomatous interstitial nephritis and localized elastolysis. The patient presented with acute renal failure and skin lesions following a 14-day course of ciprofloxacin administered for cellulitis. The patient had symmetric, palm-sized, tender violaceous plaques on both axillae. The renal biopsy revealed granulomatous interstitial disease. A skin biopsy revealed an elastolytic process with histocytic infiltration and calcification. After discontinuing ciprofloxacin and starting a short course of steroid therapy, the skin lesion and renal function improved promptly. The nephritis relapsed after prednisone was discontinued and responded to a second course of steroid therapy. Ciprofloxacin, like penicillin, can cause granulomatous interstitial nephritis and elastolysis. A prolonged course of steroid therapy may be indicated in patients with ciprofloxacin-induced granulomatous interstitial nephritis to avoid early relapse.