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Milk-alkali syndrome
Definition
Milk-alkali syndrome is an acquired condition in which there are high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia) and a shift in the body's acid/base balance towards alkaline (metabolic alkalosis).
Causes
Milk-alkali syndrome is caused by drinking too much milk (which is high in calcium) and taking certain antacids, especially calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), over a long period of time.
Calcium deposits in the kidneys and in other tissues can occur in milk-alkali syndrome. High levels of vitamin D can worsen this condition.
In the past, milk-alkali syndrome was often a side effect of treating peptic ulcer disease with antacids containing calcium. It is rarely seen today, because newer, better medications that do not contain calcium are available for treating ulcers. A more common scenario today is when someone takes too much calcium carbonate in an attempt to prevent osteoporosis. This has been reported in persons who take as little as 2 grams of calcium per day.
Symptoms
The condition usually has no symptoms (asymptomatic). When symptoms do occur, they are often related to complications, such as kidney problems.
Symptoms include:
- Back, middle of the body, and loin pain (related to kidney stones)
- Excessive urination
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Other problems that can result from kidney failure
Exams and Tests
Calcium deposits within the tissue of the kidney (nephrocalcinosis) may be seen on:
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT scans)
- Ultrasound
Other tests used to make a diagnosis:
- Electrolyte levels
- Kidney function blood tests
- Blood gas
- Blood calcium level
Treatment
Treatment involves reducing or eliminating milk and other forms of calcium such as in antacids. If severe kidney failure has occurred, the damage may be permanent.
Outlook (Prognosis)
This condition is often reversible if kidney function remains normal. Severe prolonged cases may lead to permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis.
Possible Complications
The most common complications include:
- Calcium deposits in tissues (calcinosis)
- Kidney failure
- Kidney stones
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your health care provider if:
- You drink large amounts of milk and you often use antacids.
- You have any symptoms that might suggest kidney problems.
Prevention
If you use antacids often, don't drink large amounts of milk, and tell your doctor about any digestive problems. If you are trying to prevent osteoporosis, do not take more than 1.5 grams of calcium per day.
References
Wysolmerski JJ, Insogna KL. The parathyroid glands, hypercalcemia, and hypocalcemia. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds.Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 253.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Herbert Y. Lin, MD, PHD, Nephrologist, Massachusetts General Hospital; Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
