Isoniazid-induced acute liver failure during preventive therapy for latent tuberculosis infection

Intern Med. 2015;54(6):591-5. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.54.3669. Epub 2015 Jan 15.

Abstract

Treating latent tuberculosis infection is a strategy for eliminating tuberculosis, and isoniazid is recommended as preventive therapy. However, concerns have been raised regarding the application of isoniazid due to its toxicity, particularly hepatotoxicity; however, biochemical monitoring is not routinely performed during treatment. We herein present a case of fatal isoniazid-induced acute liver failure. The patient's liver function was not periodically examined and isoniazid therapy was continued for 10 days despite the onset of symptoms associated with hepatitis. The patient died four months after hospitalization. It is essential to consider the potential toxicities of isoniazid and establish strategies to prevent acute liver failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antitubercular Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antitubercular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Isoniazid / adverse effects*
  • Isoniazid / therapeutic use
  • Latent Tuberculosis / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rifampin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antitubercular Agents
  • Isoniazid
  • Rifampin