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Bridging hepatic necrosis associated with cimetidine
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|September 1, 1980
Summary
Cimetidine, a medication for reflux esophagitis, caused hepatitis with bridging hepatic necrosis in a patient. This liver pathology finding is previously undescribed in medical literature.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
- Clinical Pathology
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition often treated with histamine H2-receptor antagonists.
- Cimetidine is a widely used medication for managing acid-related gastrointestinal disorders.
Observation:
- A patient with reflux esophagitis developed jaundice and elevated liver enzymes during cimetidine therapy.
- The patient's clinical presentation suggested drug-induced liver injury.
Findings:
- Pathologic examination of liver biopsy revealed bridging hepatic necrosis, a severe form of liver damage.
- This specific pattern of hepatic necrosis associated with cimetidine use has not been previously documented.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for cimetidine to cause severe, previously unrecognized hepatotoxicity.
- Suggests the need for increased vigilance and consideration of cimetidine as a cause of hepatitis in patients with similar presentations.
- Underscores the importance of thorough histopathological evaluation in suspected drug-induced liver injury.