Acute hepatitis in a young woman with systemic lupus erythematosus: a diagnostic challenge

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Apr 5:2013:bcr2013008591. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-008591.

Abstract

A 48-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis was on naproxen, hidroxichloroquine and acetylsalicylic acid. She had self-suspended all medication and resumed 1 year later. Five days after the medication was resumed, she developed acute hepatitis, with biochemical hepatic cytolysis, hypergamaglobulinaemia and a serum antinuclear antibody titre of 1/2560. Idiopathic autoimmune hepatitis was considered, but drug-induced liver injury could not definitely be ruled out. Patient declined liver biopsy. Oral prednisolone was started. Within 3 months with prednisolone being tapered to 10 mg/day, a new flare occurred. Liver biopsy was performed and it favoured autoimmune hepatitis diagnosis. We discuss the diagnostic options and treatment approach in a patient with autoimmune disease and possible drug-induced liver injury who initially declined liver biopsy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcysteine / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / diagnosis*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / drug therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / drug therapy*
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Acetylcysteine