Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome

Raising awareness of an uncommon but potentially serious adverse event among kidney stone patients

Authors

  • Tariq Alotaibi Western University
  • Jennifer Bjazevic Western University
  • Richard Kim Western University
  • Steven Gryn Western University
  • Nabil Sultan Western University
  • George Dresser Western University
  • Hassan Razvi Western University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.8685

Keywords:

Allopurinol, Allopurinol Hypersensitivity Syndrome, Hyperuricemia, Uric Acid Stones, Urolithiasis, Gout

Abstract

Allopurinol is a commonly prescribed agent in the urologic population for the prevention of urinary stones. Although generally well-tolerated, several serious potential side effects can occur with its use. Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS), in particular, is a relatively rare but potentially life-threatening complication. With the observed increase in urinary stone disease, especially those of uric acid composition, it is likely that the use of allopurinol will increase. Urologists play an important role in the assessment and medical management of patients with urinary stones, thus a greater awareness of the potential adverse events associated with allopurinol use, especially AHS, is important, as well as strategies that can minimize such risks. Herein, we review the potential adverse effects of allopurinol. In addition, the results of a comprehensive review of the current literature on AHS will be presented, highlighting those patients at highest risk, reviewing the genetic susceptibility testing currently available, and providing guidance on best practices when allopurinol therapy is being considered.

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Published

2024-01-30

How to Cite

Alotaibi, T., Bjazevic, J., Kim, R., Gryn, S., Sultan, N., Dresser, G., & Razvi, H. (2024). Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome: Raising awareness of an uncommon but potentially serious adverse event among kidney stone patients . Canadian Urological Association Journal, 18(5), E167–72. https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.8685

Issue

Vol. 18 No. 5 (2024): CUAJ May

Section

Review

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