Potassium-Depletion Syndrome Secondary to Nephropathy Apparently Caused by Outdated Tetracycline

Abstract

A SYNDROME of temporary renal dysfunction apparently caused by ingestion of deteriorated tetracycline has been reported in 6 patients during the past year and a half.^{1 2 3 4 5}§ Glycosuria, aminoaciduria and phosphaturia were prominent, and proteinuria occurred in all the patients. Acidosis was common, and nitrogen retention and hypokalemia were sometimes observed.In the 2 cases presented below, potassium depletion was a remarkable feature of the illness. Serial renal biopsies were performed in 1 patient.Case ReportsCase 1. V.K. (B.M.H.C. 202371), the 22-year-old sister-in-law of a physician, was hospitalized on November 13, 1962, complaining of severe weakness and lethargy of 10 . . .