Abstract: PUB526
An Interesting Case of Turmeric-Associated Hyperkalemia
Session Information
Category: Trainee Case Report
- 902 Fluid and Electrolytes: Clinical
Authors
- Hasan, Shamir, Northwell Health, Port Washington, New York, United States
- Malieckal, Deepa A., Northwell Health, Port Washington, New York, United States
Introduction
Advancements and understandings of modern medicine includes the acknowledgement of homeopathic and holistic approaches to health maintenance taken on by our patients. We also need to be aware of the possible side effects associated with their use. Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used for its rich flavor but has been increasingly popular for its possible health benefits.
Case Description
67 yo M with history of HLD presenting for evaluation of long-standing hyperkalemia. Patient is active and uses a lot of supplements in order to preserve his health. The patient started the use of turmeric after 2005. He uses turmeric regularly and sprinkles it in all foods and in his teas daily. He exercises regularly and his only other medical problem is hyperlipidemia for which he was recently started on a statin.
Vitals: BP 138/81, HR 67, SpO2 99%, Ht 5’10”, Wt 149lbs, BMI 21.21
Physical Exam was unremarkable.
Patient was asked to stop the use of turmeric (active compound: curcumin) after lab work on 12/27/2018 showed elevated serum potassium of 5.7. Repeat lab testing later (2/14/19), showed improvement of serum potassium to 5.2.
Discussion
We report a case of turmeric associated hyperkalemia as a possible cause of hyperkalemia. We also discuss the likely mechanism of action: curcumin interferes with the binding of extracellular potassium to Na-K ATPase, causing an increase in serum potassium levels. This dysregulation can lead to low-level hyperkalemia, causing undue harm to specific patient populations. Awareness of this mechanism allows physicians to make accurate diagnoses. Additionally, knowledge of supplementations causing such changes in electrolyte balance will hopefully inspire further research into alternative medicines and their risks and benefits as they pertain to our patients and their health.
Lab Results
| Date or range | Serum potassium or range | Serum creatinine or range |
| 2/14/2019 | 5.2 (plasma K) | N/A |
| 12/27/2018 | 5.7 | 0.86 |
| 8/27/2018 | 5.8 | N/A |
| 7/17/2018 | 5.6 | 0.90 |
| 3/13/2017 | 5 | 0.82 |
| 3/4/2016 | 5.6 | 0.79 |
| Oct 2011-Nov 2015 | 5.4-5.7 | 0.81-0.91 |
| Mar 2006-Jun 2010 | 4.6-5.4 | 0.86-0.9 |
| Dec 2000-Aug 2005 | 4.2-6.5 | 0.8-1 |
| 3/25/1998 | 4.1 | 0.8 |
| 6/1/1992 | 4.9 | 1.1 |