Tubulointerstitial Nephritis

Inflammatory disease of the renal tubules and interstitium.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 9, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Tubulointerstitial Nephritis?

Tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) is a disease characterized by inflammation of the renal tubules and surrounding interstitial tissue. Acute and chronic forms exist. The acute form is most often drug-induced and accounts for 15-27% of all acute kidney injury cases.

Antibiotics (especially beta-lactams), NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors, and allopurinol are the most commonly responsible drugs. Infectious causes, sarcoidosis, Sjögren syndrome, and IgG4-related disease can also cause TIN.

Diagnosis is usually made through clinical suspicion, urinary findings, and renal biopsy when needed. In drug-related cases, discontinuation of the offending drug is usually sufficient; short-term corticosteroid therapy may be used in persistent cases.

Symptoms

Progressive deterioration of renal function

Triad of fever, rash, and eosinophilia (classic but not always present)

Flank pain

White blood cells and eosinophils in urine

Mild proteinuria (usually not nephrotic-range)

Polyuria and nocturia (tubular concentration defect)

Risk Factors

Polypharmacy (multiple drug use)

Use of NSAIDs and proton pump inhibitors

History of autoimmune disease

Advanced age

Recurrent urinary tract infections

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Worsening renal function after a newly started medication
Coexistence of fever, rash, and rising creatinine
Unexplained renal dysfunction
Chronic urinary symptoms with kidney damage

Treatment Methods

Immediate discontinuation of the offending drug

Corticosteroid therapy (prednisolone) in persistent cases

Treatment of the underlying autoimmune disease

Regular monitoring of renal function

Appropriate antimicrobial therapy in infectious causes

Slowing progression in chronic forms

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.