Anuric Acute Renal Failure after Elective Abortion

Abstract

Elective abortion complicated by bilateral renal cortical necrosis (BRCN) is not common in a developed country. We reported a patient having anuric acute renal failure after elective abortion. Initial laboratory studies implied thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/Hemolytic uremic syndrome, but plasma exchange was not prescribed since magnetic resonance imaging study suggested BRCN soon after. The patient was treated as septic abortion and reached partial renal recovery after antibiotic treatment and short-term hemodialysis. Early diagnosis of BRCN is essential not only for prognosis prediction but also for treatment decision. We suggest that any anuric patient in suspicion of BRCN should receive MRI study as soon as possible.