Interstitial Nephritis

Causes

AIN may be caused by:

• Some medicines, such as antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), stomach acid reducers, and diuretics
• Immune system problems, such as systemic lupus erythematosus
• Infections, such as strep, Hepatitis C, and HIV

Risk Factors

AIN is more common in older adults. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Taking certain medicines
• Having an infection

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Passing less urine (pee) than usual
• Lack of hunger
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the side
• Joint pain
• Low fever
• Rash
• Blood in the urine (rare)

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. Blood and urine tests will be done to check kidney function.

A sample of tissue from the kidney may be taken and tested. This can be done with a biopsy.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to ease inflammation and improve kidney function. How this is done will depend on the cause.

Any medicines causing AIN will be stopped or changed. Other medicines may also be given, such as:

• Pain relievers
• Antibiotics to treat infection
• Corticosteroids to ease inflammation

People who are not helped by these methods may need dialysis. This is a machine that takes over the work of the kidneys by filtering blood.

Prevention

This risk of AIN may be lowered by avoiding medicines that may harm the kidneys. They should only be taken when advised by a doctor.