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[Chronic liver disease exacerbated during alpha-interferon treatment]
F Rodríguez Moreno1, C E González Reimers, F Santolaria Fernández
1Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Tenerife.
Revista Espanola De Enfermedades Digestivas
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Alpha interferon therapy can cause significant liver injury, indicated by elevated bilirubin and transaminases. Prompt drug withdrawal and corticosteroid treatment normalized liver function tests in a patient with chronic active hepatitis.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- A 27-year-old male with chronic active hepatitis (negative HBV/HCV markers) presented with elevated liver enzymes.
- Previous treatment history included management for persistent mild transaminase elevation.
Observation:
- After initiating alpha interferon therapy, the patient experienced marked elevations in serum bilirubin, ASAT, and ALAT.
- Pre-existing autoantibodies (antinuclear, anti-smooth muscle, antimitochondrial) were negative, but anti-smooth muscle antibodies became positive post-interferon treatment.
Findings:
- Alpha interferon therapy precipitated significant drug-induced liver injury (DILI).
- The development of anti-smooth muscle antibodies correlated with interferon treatment and liver enzyme elevation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential hepatotoxicity of alpha interferon, even in patients with pre-existing liver conditions.
- Monitoring liver function and autoantibody profiles during interferon therapy is crucial for early detection and management of DILI.
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