Acquired Gitelman Syndrome

Acquired renal tubular disorder can be observed in various disease processes, especially autoimmune diseases. Gitelman syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalciuria. This disorder is caused by mutation in the SLC12A3 gene, which encodes the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCCT). Acquired Gitelman syndrome has been reported and the majority has been associated with Sjögren's syndrome. The presence of circulating auto-antibodies to NCCT was suggested as a mechanism of acquired Gitelman syndrome. Treatment of acquired Gitelman syndrome was done with supplements of potassium and magnesium and prednisone was effective in some cases. Acquired Gitelman syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis of renal involvement in patients with autoimmune diseases, especially Sjögren's syndrome.