Methotrexate induced hepatotoxicity in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Hepatotoxicity is an under-recognized and potentially fatal side effect of high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) chemotherapy, and this risk is compounded in children with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and/or metabolic-associated steatohepatitis. We present the case of a 12-year-old obese, Hispanic male with elevated hepatic transaminases of unknown etiology at initiation of high-risk B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia chemotherapy. He developed acute kidney injury within 24 hours of receiving intravenous HDMTX which progressed to acute hepatic failure. Liver biopsy confirmed methotrexate toxicity aggravated by undiagnosed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Rapid deterioration precluded liver transplantation, and he died 21 days after HDMTX treatment. This case highlights the need for comprehensive hepatic evaluation in patients with known or suspected liver disease when administering HDMTX. Dialysis should be considered if delayed methotrexate clearance occurs due to potential for rapid, irreversible hepatotoxicity.