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Hepatotoxicity associated with lapatinib in an experimental rat model
Umut Demirci1, Suleyman Buyukberber, Guldal Yılmaz
1Atatürk Education and Research Hospital, Department of Medical Oncology, Ankara, Turkey. drumutdemirci@gmail.com
European Journal of Cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
|November 22, 2011
Summary
Lapatinib causes liver damage, indicated by abnormal lipid profiles and elevated liver enzymes like alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Histopathology revealed sinusoidal injury and hepatocyte changes in rats treated with lapatinib.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Histopathology
- Toxicology
Background:
- First study to assess lapatinib's biochemical and histopathological hepatic toxicity.
- Lapatinib is an anti-cancer drug with potential side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biochemical and histopathological effects of lapatinib on the liver.
- To determine the extent and nature of lapatinib-induced hepatic toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Twenty Wistar albino rats were divided into control and lapatinib-treated groups (10mg/kg/day for 28 or 42 days).
- Blood and liver tissue samples were collected for biochemical and histological analysis.
- Hepatic toxicity was induced orally via gavage.
Main Results:
- Lapatinib treatment significantly increased levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
- Histopathological findings included sinusoidal dilatation, hydropic degeneration of hepatocytes, and inflammation in portal areas.
- Changes were more pronounced in the group treated for 42 days.
Conclusions:
- Lapatinib induces hepatic toxicity characterized by lipid profile deterioration and sinusoidal injury.
- Elevated transaminase levels, particularly ALT, are key indicators of lapatinib-induced liver damage.
- The findings highlight the importance of monitoring liver function during lapatinib therapy.
