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Contraceptive steroids and liver lesions.
Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health
|September 1, 1977
Summary
Oral contraceptives show an exceedingly low incidence of liver lesions, far below risks associated with pregnancy. Further prospective studies and improved animal models are needed for evaluating medications.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Endocrinology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Oral contraceptives (OCs) have been linked to potential liver effects.
- An increase in reported hepatic adenomas and related lesions in OC users has raised concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the actual incidence of liver lesions associated with oral contraceptive use.
- To contextualize the risk of OCs against other daily life risks, including pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Review of reported cases of hepatic adenomas and related lesions in women using oral contraceptives.
- Epidemiological analysis to estimate the incidence rate given the large number of OC users.
Main Results:
- The incidence of these liver lesions in oral contraceptive users is exceedingly low.
- The observed risk is significantly lower than the risks associated with pregnancy itself.
Conclusions:
- Current data suggest a minimal risk of liver lesions from oral contraceptives.
- There is a need for improved prospective evaluation programs and animal models for new medications.