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Initially obscure hepatotoxicity attributed to sildenafil
Frank H J Wolfhagen1, Hestia G Vermeulen, Rob A de Man
1Department of Gastroenterology, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Dordrecht, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. frankwolfhagen@gmail.com
Sildenafil use can cause severe liver injury, presenting as jaundice and malaise. Patients may not disclose sildenafil use, complicating diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a significant clinical concern.
- Sildenafil is a widely used phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor.
Observation:
- A patient presented with malaise, severe jaundice, and pruritus.
- The symptoms were attributed to undisclosed sildenafil use.
Findings:
- The liver injury exhibited a hepatocanalicular pattern.
- Hepatocellular liver tests and extensive cholestasis on biopsy were noted.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider sildenafil as a potential cause of hepatotoxicity.
- Open communication regarding medication use is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
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