Changes in Hepatic Density Due to Oral Amiodarone-induced Liver injury Shown by Computed Tomography

Intern Med. 2024 Nov 21. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.4436-24. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug that is widely used for atrial fibrillation and other refractory arrhythmias. Although beneficial, its long-term administration is associated with adverse effects on various organs. One patient presented with amiodarone-induced liver injury, which led to liver failure. Computed tomography revealed a gradual increase in hepatic density over a long period following the initiation of amiodarone. Despite the discontinuation of the drug, the patient developed hepatic encephalopathy and subsequently died. This outcome highlights the drug's extended half-life, which caused persistent end-organ damage even after its withdrawal. Drug titration to the lowest effective dose and careful monitoring of annual liver function tests are important.

Keywords: amiodarone; hepatic density on computed tomography; liver injury.