Liver and the contraceptive pill

Oral contraceptives have been used for many years and a number of adverse effects have been recognized (e.g., jaundice, deep vein thrombosis, thromboembilic disease, gallbladder disease, breast carcinoma, endometrial carcinoma and photosensitivity). Tumour-like lesions of the liver have also been reported. The presentation of such tumours, their management and pathologic features are reviewed. The biochemical effects of the oral contraceptive on the liver, with particular reference to jaundice, are discussed in detail.