Distal renal tubular acidosis secondary to hyperbilirubinemia
Introduction: Bile cast nephropathy (BCN) is a rare and often overlooked cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), usually seen in the context of severe hyperbilirubinemia. It results from the deposition of bile pigments and bile casts in renal tubules, specifically distal and collector tubules, leading t...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
SMC MEDIA SRL
2025-07-01
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| Series: | European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.ejcrim.com/index.php/EJCRIM/article/view/5661 |
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| Summary: | Introduction: Bile cast nephropathy (BCN) is a rare and often overlooked cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), usually seen in the context of severe hyperbilirubinemia. It results from the deposition of bile pigments and bile casts in renal tubules, specifically distal and collector tubules, leading to obstruction and direct tubular toxicity.
Case description: We describe the case of 49-year-old male who presented with severe jaundice and oliguric AKI. With the gradual resolution of liver dysfunction, the patient’s kidney function also improved. However, during the recovery phase, the patient developed persistent hypokalaemia and normal anion gap metabolic acidosis. Further work-up was consistent with distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA).
Discussion: While BCN is being increasingly recognized in patients with cholestatic liver diseases, complications arising during the recovery phase – particularly acid-base disturbances like dRTA – are rarely reported. In this case, the onset of dRTA during renal recovery may reflect delayed or selective tubular healing after bile-induced injury. This case highlights the importance of continued monitoring for renal tubular defects even after apparent improvement in glomerular function.
Conclusion: This case emphasizes the need to consider dRTA as a potential complication in patients recovering from BCN. Close follow-up of electrolyte and acid-base parameters is advised during renal recovery, especially in the presence of persistent hypokalaemia. |
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| ISSN: | 2284-2594 |