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Olaparib-Induced Immune-Mediated Liver Injury
Mohammad Alshelleh1, Jennifer Park2, Veena John2
1Division of Gastroenterology, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health System, Farmington, CT.
Abstract:
Immune-mediated drug-induced liver injury can be triggered by multiple classes of medications including immunotherapies. Olaparib is a first-in-class oral inhibitor of poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (an enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair) that is approved as maintenance treatment in platinum-sensitive, epithelial ovarian, tubal, or primary peritoneal cancers with breast cancer 1/2 mutation. We report the first case in the United States of an acute and severe liver injury with associated jaundice and liver synthetic dysfunction secondary to olaparib. The liver injury was resolved with drug cessation and treatment with prednisone taper.
Insights
Olaparib, a PARP inhibitor for ovarian cancer, can cause severe liver injury. This case highlights the importance of monitoring liver function during treatment with this immunotherapy drug.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Immune-mediated drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a significant concern with various medications, including immunotherapies.
- Olaparib, a poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, is utilized in treating specific ovarian cancers with BRCA mutations.
Observation:
- This report details the first documented case in the United States of acute and severe liver injury linked to olaparib.
- The patient presented with jaundice and impaired liver synthetic function, indicative of significant hepatotoxicity.
Findings:
- Cessation of olaparib led to the resolution of the drug-induced liver injury.
- Treatment with a prednisone taper further supported the recovery of liver function.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for olaparib to cause severe hepatotoxicity, necessitating vigilant liver function monitoring in patients undergoing treatment.
- Awareness of this adverse effect is crucial for oncologists and hepatologists managing patients on olaparib therapy.
- Early recognition and intervention, including drug withdrawal and corticosteroid treatment, can effectively manage olaparib-induced liver injury.
Related Concept Videos
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Dose Adjustments Due to Hepatic Impairment

