Can acetaminophen excess result in maternal and fetal toxicity?

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Toxicology
• Neonatology

Background:

• Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol) is a common over-the-counter medication.
• Maternal overdose of acetaminophen during pregnancy is rare but poses significant risks.
• Previous reports suggest potential links between maternal acetaminophen overdose and fetal complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of maternal acetaminophen overdose during pregnancy.
• To highlight the potential for fetal hepatotoxicity and coagulation abnormalities.
• To emphasize the risk of intracranial hemorrhage in neonates exposed to maternal acetaminophen overdose.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a pregnant individual with chronic acetaminophen exposure.
• Clinical assessment of maternal and fetal well-being.
• Monitoring of infant's liver function and coagulation parameters post-delivery.

Main Results:

• The case involved chronic acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy.
• Maternal liver toxicity was observed.
• Fetal hepatotoxicity was evident, leading to prolonged infant blood coagulation times.
• Intracranial hemorrhage occurred in the infant at delivery.

Conclusions:

• Chronic maternal acetaminophen overdose during pregnancy can result in fetal hepatotoxicity.
• Fetal liver injury may manifest as prolonged coagulation and increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage.
• This case underscores the importance of monitoring acetaminophen intake during pregnancy.