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. 2013:2013:124604.
doi: 10.1155/2013/124604. Epub 2013 May 8.

Acute oxalate nephropathy associated with orlistat: a case report with a review of the literature

Dhara Chaudhari  1 , Conchitina Crisostomo  2 , Charles Ganote  3 , George Youngberg  3
Affiliations

Acute oxalate nephropathy associated with orlistat: a case report with a review of the literature

Dhara Chaudhari et al. Case Rep Nephrol. 2013.

Abstract

Orlistat is a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor used for weight reduction in obese individuals. Enteric hyperoxaluria caused by orlistat leads to oxalate absorption. Acute oxalate nephropathy is a rare complication of treatment with orlistat. Herein we report a patient presenting with acute renal failure which improved minimal with intravenous hydration. She was found to have oxalate crystals on renal biopsy. Patient admitted orlistat use over the counter for weight reduction on further questioning. The purpose of this case review is to increase awareness among patients since they are more focused on losing weight. This case also calls for the provider attention to educate patients regarding side effects of orlistat because of easy availability of orlistat over the counter.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Hematoxylin and eosin stain of renal biopsy under polarized light (20x magnification) showing oxalate crystals in tubular lumen.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Hematoxylin and eosin stain of renal biopsy under polarized light (40x objective magnification) showing oxalate crystals with suggestion of “fan” like morphology (blue arrow).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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