Acquired bartter-like syndrome associated with gentamicin administration

Am J Med Sci. 2005 Mar;329(3):144-9. doi: 10.1097/00000441-200503000-00007.

Abstract

Although acute nonoliguric renal failure is a well-known nephrotoxic effect of aminoglycoside antibiotics, less recognized is acquired Bartter-like syndrome. Herein, we describe four female patients who presented with marked paresthesia, muscle weakness, and tetany following gentamicin therapy with total dose ranging from 1.2 g to 2.6 g. All were normotensive. Biochemical abnormalities included hypokalemia (K+ 1.8-2.3 mmol/L), metabolic alkalosis (HCO(3-) 31.9-34.2 mmol/L), hypomagnesemia (Mg2+ 0.9-1.2 mg/dL), hypermagnesiuria (fractional excretion of Mg 3-6%), hypocalcemia (free Ca2+ 2.0-4.1 mg/dL), and hypercalciuria (molar ratio of Ca2+/creatinine 0.23-0.53), all consistent with Bartter-like syndrome. Serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone concentration was low despite the hypocalcemia. The Bartter-like syndrome lasted for 2 to 6 weeks after cessation of gentamicin, coupled with supplementation of K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+. These biochemical abnormalities resembled those seen in patients with gain-of-function mutations in the calcium-sensing receptor. We hypothesize that gentamicin, a polyvalent cationic molecule, induces the action of calcium-sensing receptor on the thick ascending loop of Henle and distal convoluted tubule to cause renal wasting of Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca2+, and Mg2+.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Bartter Syndrome / chemically induced*
  • Bartter Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Bartter Syndrome / metabolism
  • Female
  • Gentamicins / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Gentamicins