Aristolochic acid nephropathy caused by ingestion of herbal medicinal products

Aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN) is a rapidly progressive renal disease caused by the ingestion of plant products containing aristolochic acid (AA), first described in connection with the use of Chinese herbal medicines. Although the true worldwide extent of this disease is unknown, it is likely to represent a significant cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in many parts of the world. Furthermore, recent data have also demonstrated that AA is also the primary aetiological agent in Balkan endemic nephropathy. AAN is notable in its association with urothelial malignancy, with the mechanisms of carcinogenesis now well characterized. Aside from a possible role for corticosteroid therapy in slowing disease progression in selected patients, no disease-specific treatments have yet been shown to alter the course of this nephropathy. Therefore, prevention of exposure to AA and, in affected patients, effective management of the risk of malignancy are key principles in the approach to this condition. Although preparations containing Aristolochia spp. and herbs that can be confused or substituted for Aristolochia have been banned in many countries, other herbal products containing AA have continued to be available to consumers long after these bans have been instituted, highlighting the ongoing need for awareness of this disease.