Albendazole Induced Recurrent Acute Toxic Hepatitis: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Pharmacology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an idiosyncratic reaction.
• Albendazole is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic agent generally considered safe.
• While transient liver enzyme elevations are known, acute toxic hepatitis is rare.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old woman experienced recurrent acute toxic hepatitis following single albendazole intakes in 2010 and 2014.
• Symptoms included anorexia, vomiting, and jaundice.
• Other causes of acute hepatitis were excluded.

Findings:

• The Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method (RUCAM) score was 10, indicating highly probable drug-induced hepatotoxicity.
• This case represents a rare instance of recurrent acute toxic hepatitis linked to albendazole in an adult.
• Complete recovery occurred within two months.

Implications:

• Clinicians must consider albendazole as a potential cause of acute toxic hepatitis, even in recurrent cases.
• Awareness of this rare but severe adverse effect is crucial for patient safety.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms of albendazole-induced hepatotoxicity may be warranted.