Kidney Week

Abstract: SA-PO0317

Biopsy-Proven Oxalate Nephropathy Associated with Prolonged Turmeric Ingestion

Session Information

• AKI: Epidemiology and Risk Factors
  October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
  Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Category: Acute Kidney Injury

• 101 AKI: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention

Authors

• Alanazi, Abdullah Mordhi, King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Abdullah Mordhi Alanazi, MBBS

• Tawhari, Mohammed Hadi, King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Mohammed Hadi Tawhari, MD, MBBS, MEd, MSc, FASN

• Alsadhan, Abdulmajeed Abdullah, King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Abdulmajeed Abdullah Alsadhan, MD

• Alzahrani, Nora Mohsin M, King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Nora Mohsin M Alzahrani, MD

• Alotaibi, Khalid Ayidh, King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Khalid Ayidh Alotaibi, MBBS

Introduction

Oxalate nephropathy is a cause that can lead to severe form of acute kidney injury (AKI). The non-specific symptoms and lab findings can delay the diagnosis. High intake of certain foods or supplements can lead to oxalate nephropathy; however, cases caused by turmeric remain rare.

Case Description

A 72 year old women presented with a 2-week history of nausea and decreased oral intake. Initial laboratory tests showed severe AKI, with serum creatinine rising from 72 µmol/L six weeks ago to 1139 µmol/L. Urinalysis was Bland ,imaging showed no obstruction, and a comprehensive immunological assessment was negative.
Initial supportive management was initiated, but the patient remained oliguric and required hemodialysis. A kidney biopsy was done and showed widespread intratubular deposition of calcium oxalate crystals with associated acute tubular injury.
Further detailed history revealed that the patient had been consuming turmeric-based drinks for the last three months. Other causes of secondary hyperoxaluria were not identified. A final diagnosis of turmeric-associated oxalate nephropathy was made. Initial management was started with discontinuation of the offending agent, low-oxalate diet, oral calcium tablet, and intensive hemodialysis sessions. Despite this, The patient was followed in the hemodialysis unit for renal recovery but remained dialysis-dependent with no improvement in kidney function.

Discussion

This case highlights that turmeric can lead to oxalate nephropathy. It is usually considered a safe herbal supplement; however, turmeric contains absorbable oxalate and can lead to significant hyperoxaluria. The non-specific clinical presentation, along with unremarkable laboratory findings, often results in a delayed diagnosis. The condition often follows a severe course, with many patients presenting with severe acute kidney injury and showing limited renal recovery despite treatment.
This case focuses on the importance of a detailed history, including dietary and supplement intake, in patients with unexplained acute kidney injury. Early recognition of secondary causes may improve clinical outcomes.