Peruvian authorities have threatened sanctions and hefty fines as they investigate how popstar Shakira's medical records were leaked following her treatment at a clinic in Lima, AFP reports.

The 48-year-old Colombian singer-songwriter, winner of four Grammy awards, was admitted to the emergency room on February 15 for an abdominal ailment that forced her to pull out of a spectacular concert the following day.

Shortly after her brief hospitalization, her medical report appeared on social media, sparking widespread outrage among fans and an official investigation.

On February 18, a spokesman for Peru's national health supervisor said the investigation was ongoing and the clinic could be fined up to $430,000.

"Yesterday (17 February) we were at the clinic, we met with officials, they gave their explanation, which is confidential," said spokeswoman Ruby Cubas.

The investigation is expected to last 25 days.

The Delgado Clinic, where Shakira was treated, said it was also investigating what it called "a serious ethical violation of our code of conduct and regulations governing the handling of personal data."

"We have already identified and initiated a sanction procedure against those proven responsible," the medical facility said.

Shakira is on her first world tour in seven years. By the end of June, she is due to perform nearly 50 concerts in Latin America, followed by more shows in the US and Canada.

On the evening of February 17, she performed in Lima, offering "eternal thanks" to her "wonderful Peruvian audience."

"You have given me so much love and care!!!" she added.

Entitled "Las mujeres ya no lloran" (Women don't cry anymore), the tour kicked off in Rio de Janeiro just days after she received a Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album.

The singer dedicated the award to migrants in the United States who are facing deportation under President Donald Trump.

With more than 90 million records sold worldwide and a string of awards, Shakira is one of the most popular Latin artists of all time. | BGNES