Hepatotoxicity due to red bush tea consumption: a case report

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Toxicology
• Herbal Medicine

Background:

• Conventional drugs like isoniazid and acetaminophen are known hepatotoxins.
• Increasing use of herbal medicines has led to concerns about their potential liver toxicity.
• Hepatotoxicity is a frequent adverse reaction to herbal remedies, often overlooked in clinical evaluations.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms that initially suggested acute appendicitis.
• Laboratory results revealed elevated liver enzymes and thrombocytopenia, complicating the diagnosis.
• The patient was undergoing preoperative assessment for laparoscopic appendectomy.

Findings:

• Hepatotoxicity due to red bush tea ingestion was diagnosed.
• The elevated liver enzymes and thrombocytopenia mimicked other conditions like cholecystitis and hepatitis.
• The patient underwent an open appendectomy without adverse effects on hepatic function.

Implications:

• Herbal products like red bush tea can be significant causes of drug-induced liver injury.
• Clinicians should consider herbal remedies in the differential diagnosis of unexplained liver dysfunction.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent further hepatic damage.