[Hepatic changes caused by contraceptive steroids]

The number and type of contraceptive side effects is constantly increasing. Several abnormalities have been observed regarding liver function, these include: Jaundice, cholestasis, hepatitis, changes in the rate synthesis of many serum proteins and coagulation factors. One of the most dangerous complications in the liver is the risk to develop hepatic adenoma which has been reported in 250 cases. An even more dangerous complication is the development of liver cancer of several histological types which so far has been observed in 21 patients. Women receiving contraceptive steroids should be alert regarding their potential hazards and the physician must be informed of such risks and observe special control care in these patients.