Tubulointerstitial Nephritis and Uveitis Syndrome Associated with Hibiscus sabdariffa Ingestion: Case Report
10.21561/jor.2025.10.1.88
- Author:
Ji Woong CHUN
1
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, Chosun University Hospital, School of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Korea
- Publication Type:CASE REPORT
- From:
Journal of Retina
2025;10(1):88-91
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:We sought to present a case highlighting tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome associated with the ingestion of Hibiscus sabdariffa.Case summary: A 22-year-old woman presented to the nephrology department with symptoms of nausea and poor oral intake.Laboratory findings were a blood urea nitrogen level of 22.9 mg/dL and a creatinine level of 2.67 mg/dL, while urinalysis revealed 1+ proteinuria along with sterile pyuria with 5–9 white blood cells. Renal histology showed tubular injuries and infiltration by inflammatory cells, such as plasma cells, neutrophils, and eosinophils, consistent with acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. The nephrology department administered prednisolone, and renal function returned to normal levels after 1 month. Two months later, she visited the ophthalmology department with symptoms of recurrent bilateral ocular hyperemia and discomfort. She was diagnosed with anterior uveitis and treated with topical steroids. To our knowledge, this is the first report of TINU syndrome in a woman after 2 months of ingestion of Hibiscus sabdariffa tea.
Conclusions:In cases of TINU syndrome, it is crucial to investigate the patient’s history of medication and food consumption, including the ingestion of Hibiscus sabdariffa tea.
