DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2026.v12i05.028

Pages: 525-527

Severe acute kidney injury (AKI) is a medical emergency requiring prompt management. Toxic causes, particularly those related to the consumption of medicinal plants, are often underestimated [1,2]. We report the case of an 18-year-old patient with no significant medical history, admitted for severe AKI following oral ingestion of Lawsonia inermis. On admission, the patient was anuric. Laboratory investigations revealed severe AKI with profound metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, moderate proteinuria, and elevated serum lipase. Abdominal computed tomography showed stage I acute pancreatitis [3]. Kidney biopsy confirmed severe acute tubulointerstitial nephritis of probable toxic origin, without immune deposits [4–6]. Hemodialysis was required. The outcome was favorable, with gradual recovery of diuresis and complete restoration of renal function. This case highlights the nephrotoxic and systemic potential of certain medicinal plants, even in young individuals without comorbidities.