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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
Induction of Drug-Induced, Autoimmune Hepatitis in BALB/c Mice for the Study of Its Pathogenic Mechanisms
Published on: May 29, 2020
Brigatinib-associated autoimmune hepatitis: A case report
Mahmut Buyuksimsek1, Ali Ogul1, Abdullah Evren Yetisir1
1Department of Medical Oncology, University of Health Sciences-Adana Health Practice and Research Center, Adana, Turkey.
Abstract:
IntroductionBrigatinib is a next-generation anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor that targets a wide variety of ALK mutations and ROS1 rearrangements. While pancreatic enzyme elevations due to brigatinib are well known, we wanted to present a case that caused liver toxicity.Case reportALK and ROS1 translocations were detected in a 58-year-old patient diagnosed with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma. In the patient who had a good response with brigatinib, more than 5-fold elevation was detected in liver enzymes at the fifth month of treatment.Management & outcomeAfter excluding other hepatitis factors, the patient was thought to have autoimmune hepatitis, and methylprednisolone was started and liver enzymes were decreased.DiscussionIncreased creatine kinase and lipase levels are common side effects associated with brigatinib, while liver toxicity is rare. Autoimmune hepatitis due to brigatinib was considered because of hepatic toxicity that developed in the fifth month of treatment and responded well to steroids.
Insights
Brigatinib, an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, can rarely cause autoimmune hepatitis. This case highlights brigatinib-induced liver toxicity, which responded well to steroid treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Brigatinib is a next-generation anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor effective against ALK mutations and ROS1 rearrangements.
- Pancreatic enzyme elevations are known brigatinib side effects, but liver toxicity is uncommon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of brigatinib-induced liver toxicity.
- To investigate the potential for brigatinib to cause autoimmune hepatitis.
Main Methods:
- A 58-year-old patient with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma and ALK/ROS1 translocations received brigatinib.
- Liver enzymes were monitored, and other hepatitis causes were excluded.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced a >5-fold elevation in liver enzymes at 5 months of brigatinib treatment.
- Autoimmune hepatitis was diagnosed, and treatment with methylprednisolone led to decreased liver enzymes.
Conclusions:
- Brigatinib-induced liver toxicity, presenting as autoimmune hepatitis, is a rare but possible adverse event.
- Prompt diagnosis and steroid treatment can effectively manage brigatinib-associated hepatic toxicity.
