Hypokalemia after rituximab administration in nephrotic syndrome: two case reports

Abstract

Rituximab, a chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is an effective treatment for nephrotic syndrome. Hypokalemia is a rare adverse reaction among patients treated with rituximab although there have been extensive reports of acute and chronic adverse events with the administration of rituximab. We herein report two cases of symptomatic hypokalemia after intravenous rituximab administration in our center, to help health professionals consider the possibility of acute hypokalemia after rituximab administration, monitor potassium timely and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Keywords: Hypokalemia; Nephrotic syndrome; Rituximab.

Fig. 1

Potassium levels of case 1 (mmol/L) over time and laboratory normal value (3.5 mmol/L, dotted line). K, potassium (mmol/L); RTX, rituximab; h, hour

Fig. 2

Potassium levels of case 2 (mmol/L) over time and laboratory normal value (3.5 mmol/L, dotted line). K, potassium (mmol/L); RTX, rituximab; h, hour; d, day