Liver pathology in hycanthone hepatitis

C Cohen1

  • 1Anatomic Pathology Department, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey 17033.

Gastroenterology
|July 1, 1978
PubMed

Insights

Hycanthone treatment for schistosomiasis can cause toxic hepatitis with massive liver necrosis. Some patients recover, but chronic liver changes may persist.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Toxicology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease affecting millions worldwide.
  • Hycanthone is an antischistosomal drug.
  • Drug-induced liver injury is a significant clinical concern.

Observation:

  • Histological examination of liver tissue from patients treated with hycanthone revealed toxic hepatitis.
  • Massive hepatic necrosis, acidophil bodies, and fatty changes were observed.
  • Two patients showed features of schistosomal granulomatous hepatitis.

Findings:

  • Hycanthone induced toxic hepatitis with massive hepatic necrosis in patients.
  • Confluent necrosis and early fibrosis were noted in one patient.
  • A patient with prior hycanthone hepatitis showed recovery with chronic persistent hepatitis features.

Implications:

  • Hycanthone can cause severe liver injury, including toxic hepatitis and necrosis.
  • Long-term liver damage and fibrosis are potential outcomes.
  • Monitoring liver function is crucial in patients treated with hycanthone.

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