Work

Heroin crystal nephropathy

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: In this paper we present an interesting case of acute kidney injury and severe metabolic alkalosis in a patient with a history of heavy heroin abuse. Urine microscopy showed numerous broomstick-like crystals. These crystals are also identified in light and electron microscopy. We hypothesize that heroin crystalizes in an alkaline pH, resulting in tubular obstruction and acute kidney injury. Management is mainly supportive as there is no known specific therapy for this condition. This paper highlights the utility of urine microscopy in diagnosing the etiology of acute kidney injury and proposes a novel disease called heroin crystal nephropathy.

Source: Clinical Kidney Journal

DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfv018

Authors: Josef Edrik Keith Bautista, Basma Merhi, Oliver Gregory, Susie Hu, Kammi Henriksen, Reginald Gohh

Institutions: Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, University of Chicago Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,335