Low Risk for Kidney Problems from Low-Dose Melamine Exposure

The results of a large screening program suggest that population screening for kidney disease after low-dose melamine exposure is unwarranted.

Concern about kidney complications in children who were exposed to melamine-contaminated milk has prompted calls for widespread screening of exposed children. The Hong Kong government undertook a screening program and reports the results for 3170 children (age, <12 years) who were exposed to melamine-contaminated milk daily for at least 1 month. Screening involved renal ultrasound, urinalysis, and blood tests.

One child had a nonobstructing renal stone, and seven children had hyperechogenic deposits near the renal papillae. The estimated melamine intake from milk for these eight children was 0.10 to 0.21 mg/kg/day (below the estimated tolerable daily intake of 0.63 mg/kg/day; World Health Organization). One child with papillary deposits had …

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)