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High Content Screening Analysis to Evaluate the Toxicological Effects of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents (HPHC)
Published on: May 10, 2016
Hepatotoxicity caused by Breynia officinalis
Tzeng-Jih Lin1, Mee-Sun Tsai, Nan Mu Chiou
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Taiwan and National Yang Ming University.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|April 5, 2002
Summary
Breynia officinalis, also known as Chi R Yun, can cause severe liver injury. This traditional Chinese medicine led to acute hepatocellular liver damage in two reported poisoning cases.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Herbal Medicine Research
Background:
- Breynia officinalis (Chi R Yun) is a traditional Chinese medicine used for various ailments.
- Its use in treating venereal diseases, contusions, heart failure, growth retardation, and conjunctivitis is documented.
- Two cases of poisoning highlight potential risks associated with its consumption.
Observation:
- Two female patients experienced severe adverse effects after consuming Breynia officinalis.
- Case 1: A 43-year-old ingested a large quantity, resulting in elevated AST (264) and ALT (2443).
- Case 2: A 51-year-old ingested a smaller amount for dermatitis, leading to extremely high AST (3815) and ALT (6625).
Findings:
- Breynia officinalis was identified as the causative agent in both poisoning incidents.
- The poisoning affected multiple systems including neurologic, gastrointestinal, hepatic, urinary, and respiratory.
- The liver injury observed was hepatocellular, distinct from cholestatic liver injury.
Implications:
- This study identifies Breynia officinalis as a cause of acute hepatocellular liver injury.
- It underscores the importance of careful dosage and indication when using traditional Chinese medicines.
- Further research into the toxicological profile of Breynia officinalis is warranted.
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