# Lanthanum Gastropathy in Gastrectomy Specimen: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A case report describes lanthanum carbonate deposition in the stomach of a patient with kidney disease, visible only through histological examination after surgery.

## Contribution

This case provides a rare histological confirmation of lanthanum-induced gastropathy in a gastrectomy specimen.

## Key findings

- Lanthanum carbonate deposition was detected histologically in a gastrectomy specimen.
- The findings highlight the importance of histological evaluation for diagnosing lanthanum gastropathy.
- Minimal deposition may be missed in endoscopic and biopsy evaluations.

## Abstract

Lanthanum carbonate (LC) is a phosphate binder used in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with few adverse effects due to poor systemic absorption. Gastrointestinal deposition is likely due to alterations in epithelial permeability from inflammation in ESRD. It is challenging to detect in cases with minimal deposition and may be missed on endoscopy and biopsy. A 36-year-old with ESRD who was evaluated for gastrectomy was found to have LC deposition histologically. Years later, the excised portion had similar findings. This case allows for evaluation of LC gastropathy in a resection specimen, providing the opportunity to showcase its unique pathology features.