Drug-Induced Liver Injury: A Unique Presentation of Single-Dose Administration of Propylthiouracil

J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep. 2020 Jan-Dec:8:2324709620951323. doi: 10.1177/2324709620951323.

Abstract

Antithyroid drug-induced severe liver injury is an uncommon but serious complication. We hereby delineate the case of a 38-year-old female who presented to the emergency department for an impending thyroid storm. After initiation of a single dose of propylthiouracil, her liver enzymes went into the thousands. She was subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit. Propylthiouracil was discontinued and corticosteroids were initiated with the resolution of her elevated liver enzymes. On follow-up, her liver function was at its baseline and thyroid hormone levels were under control. We hope this report will encourage clinicians to cast a broad differential diagnosis in patients presenting with liver injury in the acute setting. Furthermore, it is imperative to raise awareness regarding the ever-increasing list of pharmacologic agents that can perpetuate drug-induced hepatotoxicity.

Keywords: drug-induced liver injury; hepatic dysfunction; hepatocellular injury; propylthiouracil.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antithyroid Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antithyroid Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Liver Function Tests / methods*
  • Propylthiouracil / adverse effects*
  • Propylthiouracil / therapeutic use
  • Thyroid Crisis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antithyroid Agents
  • Propylthiouracil