Initially obscure hepatotoxicity attributed to sildenafil

Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2008 Jul;20(7):710-2. doi: 10.1097/MEG.0b013e3282f2bbb5.

Abstract

We describe a patient with a hepatotoxic reaction, presenting with general malaise, severe jaundice, and pruritus. This turned out to be caused by the, at first unrevealed, use of sildenafil. The injury seems to be hepatocanalicular, characterized by a hepatocellular liver test pattern, combined with extensive cholestasis on liver biopsy. One should bare in mind that the use of sildenafil may not be readily disclosed by the patient nor his doctor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / diagnosis
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Cholestasis, Intrahepatic / chemically induced
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Piperazines / adverse effects*
  • Pruritus / chemically induced
  • Purines / adverse effects
  • Sildenafil Citrate
  • Sulfones / adverse effects*
  • Truth Disclosure

Substances

  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Piperazines
  • Purines
  • Sulfones
  • Sildenafil Citrate