Sjogren’s syndrome Associated with Type 1 Renal Tubular Acidosis and Severe Hypokalemia: A Case Study

Abstract

Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition that primarily involves exocrine glands like the glands of saliva and tears. SS also involves extra-glandular involvement with renal involvement in the form of tubulointerstitial nephritis, followed by glomerulonephritis, distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA), and Fanconi syndrome. We report a case of type 1 RTA with severe hypokalemia caused by SS. ECG showed Sinus Bradycardia with QT prolongation with U waves. USG’s abdomen showed nephrolithiasis of size 4 mm in the left kidney. Diagnosis of distal RTA type 1 associated with SS was based on the above findings. This case emphasizes the need to evaluate for autoimmune conditions when a patient presents with Distal RTA.