Nephropathy caused by Chinese herbs in the UK

Lancet. 1999 Aug 7;354(9177):481-2. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(99)03380-2.

Abstract

The use of Chinese herbal remedies is increasing in the UK. We report the presence of a nephrotoxic compound in herb samples, which led to end-stage renal failure in two patients. We suggest that use of these products is regulated more tightly.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Aristolochic Acids*
  • Biopsy
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / adverse effects*
  • Eczema / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney / drug effects
  • Kidney / pathology
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / chemically induced*
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / pathology
  • Kidney Function Tests
  • Middle Aged
  • Phenanthrenes / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Aristolochic Acids
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal
  • Phenanthrenes
  • aristolochic acid I