Lanthanum, constipation, bafflying X-rays and a perforated colonic diverticulum.

Abstract

Lanthanum carbonate (LC) is used as a phosphate binder in dialysed patients. Abdominal pain and constipation are known side effects of its use. Furthermore, in radiological studies, LC tablets are seen as intense radio-opaque deposits within the entire gastrointestinal tract-findings which can lead to diagnostic misinterpretations. An elderly patient on peritoneal dialysis and taking LC presented with peritonitis, secondary to a perforated colonic diverticulum. The possible association between the use of LC, worsening constipation and complications arising from colonic diverticular disease, are discussed.

• Authors: Asher Korzets, Inna Tsitman, Netta Lev, Boris Zingerman, Michal Herman, Naomi Ben Dor, Uzi Gafter, Yaacov Ori
• Journal: Clinical kidney journal (Clin Kidney J) Vol. 5 Issue 4 Pg. 331-3 (Aug 2012) ISSN: 2048-8505 [Print] England
• PMID: 25874091 (Publication Type: Journal Article)