A case of Sjogren’s syndrome presenting as hypokalaemia secondary to renal tubular acidosis

Savitha M.; Sudha Vidyasagar; Sudhinder Murali; Sahana Srinivasan

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20252427

Authors

Savitha M. Department of Internal Medicine, Voluntary Health Services, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Sudha Vidyasagar Department of Internal Medicine, Voluntary Health Services, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Sudhinder Murali Department of Internal Medicine, Voluntary Health Services, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Sahana Srinivasan Department of Internal Medicine, Voluntary Health Services, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20252427

Keywords:

Sjogren’s syndrome, Renal tubular acidosis, Hypokalaemia, Respiratory arrest

Abstract

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a known but relatively rare presentation of Sjogren’s syndrome. It requires a high level of clinical suspicion to be diagnosed. We report a 38-year-old female who presented with respiratory arrest that was later found to be caused by hypokalemia secondary to renal tubular acidosis. Further work up proved a diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome. The patient improved with correction of electrolytes and hydroxychloroquine. This case highlights the importance of consideration of Sjogren’s syndrome as a probable cause of RTA as renal complications of Sjogren’s syndrome have a good prognosis if identified and treated promptly.

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