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Autoimmune hepatitis revealed by atorvastatin.
Nicoletta Pelli1, Maurizio Setti, Paola Ceppa
1Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|July 18, 2003
Summary
Statins, like atorvastatin, can cause acute hepatitis. In one case, atorvastatin treatment revealed an underlying autoimmune hepatitis in a 65-year-old woman presenting with jaundice and abnormal liver function tests.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Autoimmunology
Background:
- Statins are widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors).
- Drug-induced liver injury, including acute hepatitis, is a known potential adverse effect of statin therapy.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old woman developed fatigue, jaundice, and abnormal liver function tests during treatment with atorvastatin.
- Clinical, serological, and histological evaluations were performed.
Findings:
- The patient's presentation and test results were consistent with a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis.
- A high score indicated autoimmune hepatitis.
Implications:
- Atorvastatin may unmask or precipitate autoimmune hepatitis in susceptible individuals.
- This case highlights the importance of considering autoimmune hepatitis in patients on statins presenting with liver abnormalities.