Chloroquine-induced Renal Phospholipidosis

Abstract

We reported a patient under treatment with chloroquine for rheumatoid arthritis of approximately ten years of evolution, with a significant accumulated dose and in whom progressive deterioration of renal function, proteinuria in the non-nephrotic range, and proximal muscle involvement in the extremities was documented. In the renal biopsy, zebra bodies were found at the podocyte level. Fabry disease was ruled out. Drug-induced phospholipidosis was concluded in this case by chloroquine. This case report reminds us of the importance of knowing the possible side effects of medications.