[Drug-induced hepatotoxicity: clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients and a review of the literature]

Recenti Prog Med. 2011 Jun;102(6):253-60. doi: 10.1701/893.9843.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity: clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients and a review of the literature. Drug-induced hepatotoxicity is a major cause of iatrogenic diseases. More than 1200 compounds are involved and can reproduce the full range of hepatic disorders. Clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients (13 men and 13 women, mean age 62 years) observed during a 6 years period were reported. The potential hepatotoxicity of some herbal remedies are described, emphasizing the relevance of misconception that herbs are devoid of toxic potential because they are natural products. Meticulous taking of patient history, drug history with specific queries about ingestion of herbal and dietary supplements, and the exclusion of other causes of liver disease are important for the early detection of drug-induced hepatotoxicity and rapid discontinuation of suspected drug(s).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / diagnosis*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Dietary Supplements / adverse effects*
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / adverse effects
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease*
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phytotherapy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Withholding Treatment

Substances

  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal