Phenacetin nephropathy, with particular reference to the effect of surgery

Sixteen patients suffering from phenacetin nephropathy were seen at one London hospital between June 1964 and January 1970. There were five deaths, three of them following a surgical operation. Phenacetin nephropathy occurs far more frequently than is generally considered. Unless patients are asked about the consumption of phenacetin routinely the diagnosis is usually missed. It is recommended that phenacetin and paracetamol should be available only on a doctor's prescription.