HYPERCALCEMIA AND RENAL INSUFFICIENCY SECONDARY TO EXCESSIVE MILK AND ALKALI INTAKE

Abstract

Three cases are presented of a syndrome characterized by hypercalcemia without hypercalciuria or hypophosphatemia, calcinosis and renal insufficiency, and occurring in patients with a prolonged history of excessive milk and absorbable alkali intake. A review is given of the features in all of the cases reported to date. Improved renal function and partial correction of the chemical abnormalities were obtained in many instances by placing the patients on a diet low in Ca and absorbable alkali. The prognosis appears to depend on the duration and severity of the renal disease. The pathogenesis and differential diagnosis are discussed.