A Case of Renal Tubular Acidosis Associated With Graves’ Disease

Abstract

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a metabolic acidosis caused by impaired excretion of hydrogen ions or reabsorption of bicarbonate. Disorders caused by impairment of bicarbonate reabsorption in the proximal tubule are classified as proximal RTA, whereas those resulting from impairment of hydrogen ion secretion at the distal tubule are called distal RTA. The most common causes of distal renal tubular acidosis in adults are autoimmune disorders including Sjögren syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune thyroiditis. Of the thyroiditis states, Graves' disease-associated RTA is a rare disease. We experienced and managed one case of hypokalemic muscle weakness associated with Graves' disease and distal renal tubular acidosis.