Analgesic nephropathy--a continuing problem.

Analgesic-induced renal disease occurs more commonly than is recognized; unless specific inquiry is made, it is seldom diagnosed. Patients with chronic pain, especially those with hypertension, urinary tract infection, or renal insufficiency, should be suspect. The condition is preventable and even in the late stages is manageable if recognized. Analgesic abuse may result in end-stage renal disease; it accounts for a significant percentage of patients entering chronic hemodialysis or renal transplant programs.