The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has updated its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including with new information specifically addressed to individuals in the European Economic Area. As described in the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, this website utilizes cookies, including for the purpose of offering an optimal online experience and services tailored to your preferences.

Please read the entire Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By closing this message, browsing this website, continuing the navigation, or otherwise continuing to use the APA's websites, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including the utilization of cookies.

×
No Access

Lithium-induced nephrotic syndrome

Published Online:https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.146.1.84

The nephrotic syndrome is a rare, idiosyncratic adverse renal effect of lithium that can occur with therapeutic plasma lithium levels. The syndrome is usually reversed by discontinuation of lithium treatment but may require corticosteroids. Renal biopsies reveal fusion of the foot processes of renal epithelial cells, referred to as "minimal change disease." No particular variable identifies individuals at risk for developing the nephrotic syndrome while taking lithium. The authors review the eight published cases in the English-language literature and present the case of an adolescent who developed lithium-induced nephrotic syndrome.

Access content

To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.