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Drug-induced active chronic hepatitis

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Abstract

In an investigation of the etiology of 21 consecutive cases of active chronic hepatitis presenting for the first time in the last 12 months, 14 were considered to be drug-induced. Nine cases were associated with ingestion of laxatives containing oxyphenisatin, and 5 followed ingestion of methyldopa (Aldomet®). Cases considered to be drug-induced closely resembled cases of active chronic hepatitis of unknown etiology clinically, biochemically, and histologically. However, of 9 cases associated with laxative ingestion, 8 had submassive necrosis diagnosed on liver biopsy and 1 died in fulminant hepatic failure. Drug-induced cases showed clinical and biochemical improvement after drug withdrawal, and 3 months later the change in their liver function was greater than in cases of unknown etiology. One case associated with Aldomet, and 1 with laxatives containing oxyphenisatin, had severe exacerbations of hepatitis on re-exposure to the drug.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. A. W. Morrow Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, 2050, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia

    G. B. Goldstein MB, MRACP, K. C. Lam MB, MRACP & S. P. Mistilis MB, FRACP

Authors
  1. G. B. Goldstein MB, MRACP
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  2. K. C. Lam MB, MRACP
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  3. S. P. Mistilis MB, FRACP
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Goldstein, G.B., Lam, K.C. & Mistilis, S.P. Drug-induced active chronic hepatitis. Digest Dis Sci 18, 177–184 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01071970

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