Gastroenterology and Liver

Drug-Induced Liver Injury

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a significant concern in both clinical practice and drug development, characterized by liver damage resulting from the use of medications. DILI can present with a range of symptoms, from mild liver enzyme elevations to severe liver failure. Identifying and managing DILI requires careful assessment of the patient's medication history, liver function tests, and exclusion of other potential causes of liver damage.

Management of DILI involves discontinuing the offending drug and providing supportive care to the patient. In cases of severe liver injury, additional interventions such as corticosteroids or N-acetylcysteine may be considered. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize early signs of DILI and promptly address them to prevent progression to more severe liver damage.

Research into DILI continues to advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying drug-induced liver damage and identify risk factors associated with its development. Pharmacogenomic studies are exploring genetic predispositions to DILI, aiming to personalize drug prescribing and minimize the risk of liver injury. As new drugs are developed, ongoing monitoring and reporting of DILI cases are crucial for ensuring patient safety and refining treatment guidelines