Liver failure due to antithyroid drugs: report of a case and literature review

Endocrine. 2010 Aug;38(1):24-8. doi: 10.1007/s12020-010-9348-y. Epub 2010 May 18.

Abstract

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder affecting 2% of females and 0.5% of males worldwide and antithyroid drugs constitute the first line of treatment in the majority of cases. These agents may cause severe adverse effects and among them liver failure, although rare, is a potential lethal one. This case illustrates the sudden and abrupt deterioration of hepatic function due to antithyroid drug administration. This case along with a concise literature review is presented aiming to increase the awareness of endocrinologists of possible fatal complications from the everyday use of common agents such as antithyroid drugs.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antithyroid Agents / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperthyroidism / drug therapy*
  • Hyperthyroidism / surgery
  • Liver Failure / chemically induced*
  • Methimazole / adverse effects*
  • Propylthiouracil / adverse effects*
  • Thyroidectomy

Substances

  • Antithyroid Agents
  • Methimazole
  • Propylthiouracil