BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can prese...BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can present as a diagnostic and treatment challenge.AHUO in the adult population is unusual and poorly documented.It has an incidence between 11%and 75%.Currently,no treatment guidelines exist.With no identified cause,treatment is often blind,and the wrong treatment plan may have unintended consequences.CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 58-year-old woman who presented to the emergency room for elevated liver function tests(LFTs).Her symptoms started 10 d prior to admission and included nausea,vomiting,jaundice,decreased appetite,weight loss of 10 lbs,and dark urine.She denied drinking alcohol or taking any hepatotoxic agents,including acetaminophen,statins,vitamins,or supplements.She was admitted to the hospital,and an etiologic work-up was carried out.Her initial bloodwork revealed elevated liver enzymes(alanine aminotransferase 2500 U/L,aspartate aminotransferase 3159 U/L,and alkaline phosphatase 714 U/L)and elevated total bilirubin of 6.4 mg/dL.She tested negative for common infectious etiologies such as hepatotropic viruses A,B,C,and E.Further infective work-up revealed negative serology for cytomegalovirus,Epstein-Barr virus,herpes simplex virus 1&2,and human immunodeficiency virus.Her autoanti-body test results were negative,including anti-smooth muscle antibody,anti-mitochondrial antibody,and anti-liver kidney microsome 1 antibody.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography ruled out biliary causes of elevated LFTs,and her core liver biopsy proved inconclusive.Over the course of her hospital stay,the patient's LFTs improved with supportive care and without steroids.CONCLUSION Idiopathic hepatitis makes treatment challenging.It can leave patients feeling confused and unfulfilled.Thus,educating the patient thoroughly for shared decision-making and management becomes essential.展开更多
There has been an increasing number of reported cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin in previously healthy children since first reported on March 31,2022.This clinical syndrome is identified by jaundice and mark...There has been an increasing number of reported cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin in previously healthy children since first reported on March 31,2022.This clinical syndrome is identified by jaundice and markedly elevated liver enzymes with increased aspartate transaminase and/or alanine aminotransa-minase(greater than 500 IU/L).We conducted an inclusive literature review with respect to acute hepatitis outbreaks in children using the search terms acute hepatitis,outbreak,children,severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19),and adenovirus.According to the cumulative data presented in four main studies,the median age is 4 years,with a male predominance(1.3:1).Jaundice was the most common clinical manifestation(69%),followed by vomiting(63%),anorexia(52.9%),diarrhea(47.2%),abdominal pain(39%),pyrexia(33.3%),pale stool(30%),and dark urine(30%).Coryza and lethargy were reported in 16.6%,while pruritus was reported in 2%of cases.Acute liver failure was observed in 25%of cases.The exact mechanism of this acute hepatitis outbreak is still not entirely clear.Adenoviruses and SARS-CoV-2 were detected in a significant number of patients.Coinfection with adenovirus and SARS-CoV-2 could be a possible underlying mechanism.However,other possible infections and mechanisms must be considered in the pathogenesis of this condition.Acute hepatitis of unknown origin in children has been a serious problem since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic but has not yet been sufficiently addressed.Many questions remain regarding the underlying mechanisms leading to acute liver failure in children,and it is likely that extensive future research is needed.展开更多
Background and Aims Recently, epidemiology studies of hepatitis E in different areas are attracted more attention. Extensive studies of prevalent status and clinical manifestations could help us to broaden our knowled...Background and Aims Recently, epidemiology studies of hepatitis E in different areas are attracted more attention. Extensive studies of prevalent status and clinical manifestations could help us to broaden our knowledge, so as to excellently prevent and treat hepatitis E. The study analyzed the epidemiological characteristics and clinical features of 394 cases of sporadic acute hepatitis E(AHE) in Southwest of China from 2008 to 2010. Methods The clinical data of 394 cases with sporadic AHE in Southwest of China from 2008 to 2010 were reviewed.Results In the 394 cases with sporadic AHE, the ratio of male/female was 1.432∶1, and the mean age was(31.53 ± 18.12) years. Totally, 94(23.86%) patients aged under 18, 271(68.78%) patients aged between 18 and 60, and 29(7.36%) patients aged above 60. The incidence rate was significantly increased in summer(P = 0.000), especially in May(14.72%) and July(13.71%). In addition, the characteristics of occupation and ethnic group distribution were migrant laborers(106/394, 26.90%) and Han people(365/394, 92.64%). The length of stay, incidence of jaundice, the peak value of total bilirubin and alanine aminotransferase in male patients were all higher than those in female patients significantly(P < 0.05). The prolonged length of stay, decreased levels of ALT/ALB/CHE, increased levels of TBil, and increased incidence of jaundice and fatigue were associated with older age significantly(P < 0.05). The differences in peak values of total bilirubin(TBil), total bile acid(TBA), glutamyltransferase(GGT), cholinesterase(CHE) between AHE group and the groups of AHE accompanied respectively by chronic hepatitis B(CHB), acute alcoholic fatty liver(AFL), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) were significant(P < 0.05). In addition, no significant difference was found in length of stay and biochemical indexes among anti-HEV-Ig G positive group, anti-HEV-Ig M positive group and antiHEV-Ig M/Ig G both positive group(P > 0.05).Conclusions Four epidemiological characteristics, including aged between 18 and 60, male, summer and migrant laborers, are found to be associated with acute hepatitis E. The prognosis of AHE in the majority of patients was favorable, but aged above 60 years and coexistence with CHB, AFL and NAFLD could be considerede as the factors inducing the infaust prognosis.展开更多
Hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection after biological accident(needlestick injury) is a rare event.This report describes the first case of acute HCV infection after a needlestick injury in a female nursing student at Padu...Hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection after biological accident(needlestick injury) is a rare event.This report describes the first case of acute HCV infection after a needlestick injury in a female nursing student at Padua University Hospital.The student nurse was injured on the second finger of the right hand when recapping a 23-gauge needle after taking a blood sample.The patient who was the source was a 72-year-old female with weakly positive anti-HCV test results.Three months after the injury,at the second step of followup,a relevant increase in transaminases with a low viral replication activity(350 IU/mL) was observed in the student,indicating HCV infection.The patient tested positive for the same genotype(1b) of HCV as the injured student.A rapid decline in transaminases,which was not accompanied by viral clearance,and persistently positive HCV-RNA was described 1 mo later.Six months after testing positive for HCV,the student was treated with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin for 24 wk.A rapid virological response was observed after 4 wk of treatment,and a sustained virological response(SVR) was evident 6 mo after therapy withdrawal,confirming that the patient was definitively cured.Despite the favourable IL28B gene(rs12979860) CC-polymorphism observed in the patient,which is usually predictive of a spontaneous clearance and SVR,spontaneous viral clearance did not take place;however,infection with this genotype was promising for a sustained virological response after therapy.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the influence of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection[based on the status of hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg),HBV DNA,and cirrhosis]on superimposed acute hepatitis E.METHODS:A total of 294 patients w...AIM:To investigate the influence of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection[based on the status of hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg),HBV DNA,and cirrhosis]on superimposed acute hepatitis E.METHODS:A total of 294 patients were recruited from the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Third Affiliated Hospital,Sun Yat-sen University,from January 2003 to January 2012.The patients were classified into two groups:an HBV+hepatitis E virus(HEV)group(a group with chronic HBV infection that was superinfected with acute hepatitis E,n=118)and an HEV group(a group with acute hepatitis E,n=176).We retrospectively analyzed and compared the clinical features of the two groups.Statistical analyses were performed using theχ2test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and the Student’s t test forcontinuous variables.A P value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS:The peak values of prothrombin time,serum total bilirubin,and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores were significantly higher in the HBV+HEV group.More patients in the HBV+HEV group had complications(39.8%vs 16.5%,P=0.000)and developed liver failure(35.6%vs 8.5%,P=0.000).Additionally,the mortality of the HBV+HEV group was significantly higher(20.3%vs 7.4%,P=0.002).Further analysis of the HBV+HEV group showed that there were no significant differences in complication occurrence,liver failure incidence,or mortality between patients with different HBeAg and HBV DNA statuses.However,in patients with underlying cirrhosis,complication occurrence and liver failure incidence significantly increased.In total,12.7%of the patients in the HBV+HEV group received anti-HBV treatment,but this therapy failed to reduce mortality in patients who developed liver failure.CONCLUSION:The presence of underlying cirrhosis in chronic HBV infection results in more severe clinical outcomes with superimposed acute hepatitis E.AntiHBV treatment cannot improve the prognosis of liver failure caused by HBV-HEV superinfection.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the significance of computed tomography (CT) findings in relation to liver chemistry and the clinical course of acute hepatitis. METHODS: Four hundred and twelve patients with acute hepatitis who unde...AIM: To evaluate the significance of computed tomography (CT) findings in relation to liver chemistry and the clinical course of acute hepatitis. METHODS: Four hundred and twelve patients with acute hepatitis who underwent enhanced CT scanning were enrolled retrospectively. Imaging findings were analyzed for the following variables: gallbladder wall thickness (GWT), arterial heterogeneity, periportal tracking, number and maximum size of lymph nodes, presence of ascites, and size of spleen. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, albumin, and prothrombin time were measured on the day of admission and CT scan, and laboratory data were evaluated every 2-4 d for all subjects during hospitalization. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 34.4 years, and the most common cause of hepatitis was hepatitis A virus (77.4%). The mean GWT was 5.2 mm. The number of patients who had findings of arterial heterogeneity, periportal tracking, lymph node enlargement > 7 mm, and ascites was 294 (80.1%), 348 (84.7%), 346 (84.5%), and 56 (13.6%), respectively. On multivariate logistic regression, male gender [odds ratio (OR) = 2.569, 95%CI: 1.477-4.469, P = 0.001], toxic hepatitis (OR = 3.531, 95%CI: 1.444-8.635, P = 0.006), level of albumin (OR = 2.154, 95%CI: 1.279-3.629, P = 0.004), and GWT (OR = 1.061, 95%CI: 1.015-1.110, P = 0.009) were independent predictive factors for severe hepatitis. The level of bilirubin (OR = 1.628, 95%CI: 1.331-1.991, P < 0.001) and GWT (OR = 1.172, 95%CI: 1.024-1.342,P = 0.021) were independent factors for prolonged cholestasis in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: In patients with acute hepatitis, GWT on CT scan was an independent predictor of severe hepatitis and prolonged cholestasis.展开更多
A 47-year-old man presented with general fatigue and dark urine.The laboratory data showed increased levels of hepatic transaminases.The patient was positive for hepatitis B virus(HBV)markers and negative for antihuma...A 47-year-old man presented with general fatigue and dark urine.The laboratory data showed increased levels of hepatic transaminases.The patient was positive for hepatitis B virus(HBV)markers and negative for antihuman immunodeficiency virus.The HBV-DNA titer was set to 7.7 log copies/mL.The patient was diagnosed with acute hepatitis B.The HBV infection route was obscure.The serum levels of hepatic transaminases decreased to normal ranges without any treatment,but the HBVDNA status was maintained for at least 26 mo,indicating the presence of persistent infection.We isolated HBV from the acute-phase serum and determined the genome sequence.A phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolated HBV was genotype H.In this patient,the elevated peak level of HBV-DNA and the risk alleles at human genome single nucleotide polymorphisms s3077and rs9277535 in the human leukocyte antigen-DP locus were considered to be risk factors for chronic infection.This case suggests that there is a risk of persistent infection by HBV genotype H following acute hepatitis;further cases of HBV genotype H infection must be identified and characterized.Thus,the complete determination of the HBV genotype may be essential during routine clinical care of acute hepatitis B outpatients.展开更多
AIM:To compares the clinical features of patients infected with hepatitis E virus(HEV) with or without severe jaundice.In addition,the risk factors for HEV infection with severe jaundice were investigated.METHODS:We e...AIM:To compares the clinical features of patients infected with hepatitis E virus(HEV) with or without severe jaundice.In addition,the risk factors for HEV infection with severe jaundice were investigated.METHODS:We enrolled 235 patients with HEV into a cross-sectional study using multi-stage sampling to select the study group.Patients with possible acute hepatitis E showing elevated liver enzyme levels were screened for HEV infection using serologic and molecular tools.HEV infection was documented by HEV antibodies and by the detection of HEV-RNA in serum.We used χ2 analysis,Fisher's exact test,and Student's t test where appropriate in this study.Significant predictors in the univariate analysis were then included in a forward,stepwise multiple logistic regression model.RESULTS:No significant differences in symptoms,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase,al-kaline phosphatase,or hepatitis B virus surface antigen between the two groups were observed.HEV infected patients with severe jaundice had significantly lower peak serum levels of γ-glutamyl-transpeptidase(GGT)(median:170.31 U/L vs 237.96 U/L,P = 0.007),significantly lower ALB levels(33.84 g/L vs 36.89 g/L,P = 0.000),significantly lower acetylcholine esterase(CHE) levels(4500.93 U/L vs 5815.28 U/L,P = 0.000) and significantly higher total bile acid(TBA) levels(275.56 μmol/L vs 147.03 μmol/L,P = 0.000) than those without severe jaundice.The median of the lowest point time tended to be lower in patients with severe jaundice(81.64% vs 96.12%,P = 0.000).HEV infected patients with severe jaundice had a significantly higher viral load(median:134 vs 112,P = 0.025) than those without severe jaundice.HEV infected patients with severe jaundice showed a trend toward longer median hospital stay(38.17 d vs 18.36 d,P = 0.073).Multivariate logistic regression indicated that there were significant differences in age,sex,viral load,GGT,albumin,TBA,CHE,prothrombin index,alcohol overconsumption,and duration of admission between patients infected with acute hepatitis E with and without severe jaundice.CONCLUSION:Acute hepatitis E patients may naturally present with severe jaundice.展开更多
The patient was a 57-year-old woman presenting with jaundice as the chief complaint. She began vomiting on July 10, 2003.Jaundice was noted and admitted to our hospital for thorough testing. Tests on admission indicat...The patient was a 57-year-old woman presenting with jaundice as the chief complaint. She began vomiting on July 10, 2003.Jaundice was noted and admitted to our hospital for thorough testing. Tests on admission indicated severe hepatitis, based on: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), 1 076 IU/L; alanine aminotransferase (ALT), 1 400 IU/L; total bilirubin (TB), 20.9 mg/dL; and prothrombin time rate (PT%), 46.9%. Acute hepatitis A (HA) was diagnosed based on negative hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis C virus RNA and positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M HA antibody, but elevation of anti-nuclear antigen (×320) and IgG (3 112 mg/dL) led to suspicion of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Plasma exchange was performed for 3 d from July 17, and steroid pulse therapy was performed for 3 d starting on July 18, followed by oral steroid therapy. Liver biopsy was performed on August 5, and the results confirmed acute hepatitis and mild chronic inflammation. Levels of AST and ALT normalized,so dose of oral steroid was markedly reduced. Steroid therapy was terminated after 4 mo, as the patient had glaucoma. Starting 3 mo after cessation of steroid therapy,levels of AST and ALT began to increase again. Another liver biopsy was performed and AIH was diagnosed based on serum data and biopsy specimen. Oral steroid therapy was reinitiated. Levels of AST and ALT again normalized.The present case was thus considered to represent AIH triggered by acute HA.展开更多
AIM: Aloe vera, plant extracts of Aloe barbadensis miller,is widely used in phytomedicine. The first case of acute hepatitis due to this compound was described.METHODS: Description of a clinical case.RESULTS: Hepatiti...AIM: Aloe vera, plant extracts of Aloe barbadensis miller,is widely used in phytomedicine. The first case of acute hepatitis due to this compound was described.METHODS: Description of a clinical case.RESULTS: Hepatitis in a 57-year old female could be linked to the ingestion of Aloe barbadensis miller compounds. The patient's hepatitis resolved completely after discontinuing this medication.CONCLUSION: The case emphasizes the importance of considering phytopharmaceutical over-the-counter drugs as causative agents of hepatitis.展开更多
Alverine citrate is a commonly used smooth muscle relaxant agent. A MEDLINE search on January 2004 revealed only 1 report implicating the hepatotoxicity of this agent. A 34- year-old woman was investigated because of ...Alverine citrate is a commonly used smooth muscle relaxant agent. A MEDLINE search on January 2004 revealed only 1 report implicating the hepatotoxicity of this agent. A 34- year-old woman was investigated because of the finding of elevated liver function tests on biochemical screening. Other etiologies of hepatitis were appropriately ruled out and elevated enzymes were ascribed to alverine citrate treatment.Although alverine citrate hepatotoxicity was related to an immune mechanism in the first case, several features such as absence of predictable dose-dependent toxicity of alverine citrate in a previous study and absence of hypersensitivity manifestations in our patient are suggestive of a metabolic type of idiosyncratic toxicity.展开更多
Depression is a common disorder amongst the general population and frequently encountered by most physicians. Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) have become the most commonly prescribed antidepressants...Depression is a common disorder amongst the general population and frequently encountered by most physicians. Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) have become the most commonly prescribed antidepressants due to their superiority compared with other antidepressants in the treatment of acute major depression. Although exceedingly rare, hepatotoxicity resulting from sertraline use has been previously reported. In these case reports, the liver injury pattern was predominately hepatocellular. Unlike previous cases, we report the case of a patient presenting with markedly elevated cholestatic enzymes and painless jaundice while taking sertraline for treatment of depression.展开更多
To the Editor:Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are acute infectious diseases caused by hepatitis A virus(HAV)and hepatitis E virus(HEV),which are mainly transmitted through the fecal-oral route[1].The early clinical sympto...To the Editor:Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are acute infectious diseases caused by hepatitis A virus(HAV)and hepatitis E virus(HEV),which are mainly transmitted through the fecal-oral route[1].The early clinical symptoms of patients with hepatitis A or E are nonspecific,including fever,chills,abdominal pain,diarrhea,and rash[2].展开更多
Objective: To investigate the age range, liver functiondamage and prognosis of patients with sporadic acutehepatitis A and E in Beijing.Methods: Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was used todetect anti-HAV and anti-HEV immunog...Objective: To investigate the age range, liver functiondamage and prognosis of patients with sporadic acutehepatitis A and E in Beijing.Methods: Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was used todetect anti-HAV and anti-HEV immunoglobulin M(IgM). Serum samples were collected from the pa-tients with sporadic acute viral hepatitis in Beijingfrom January 1995 to June 2000.Results: The total positive rate for anti-HAV and an-ti-HEV IgM was 55.2% (112)in 203 patients with a-cute hepatitis, of whom 22.2% (45 patients) and33.0% (67) were positive for anti-HAV and anti-HEV respectively. The duration of anti-HEV IgMwas 45-60 days and that of anti-HAV IgM was atleast 2-3 months. The patients with acute hepatitis Aand hepatitis E all experienced jaundice and a risingof liver enzyme, but did not develop chronic hepatitisor died.Conclusion: Acute hepatitis A as well as acute hepatitisE plays an important role in sporadic entericallytransmitted hepatitis in Beijing.展开更多
We reported a case of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma where liver involvement was the predominant clinical manifestation. A 27-year old man presented wiht markedly elevated serum aspartate aminotrasferase, alanine aminotra...We reported a case of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma where liver involvement was the predominant clinical manifestation. A 27-year old man presented wiht markedly elevated serum aspartate aminotrasferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase, reduced prothrombin activity, thrombocytopenic purpura and hepato-splenomegaly without adenopathy. Viral, toxic,autoimmune and metabolic liver diseases were excluded.Bone marrow biopsy showed an intracapillary infiltration of T-lymphocytes with no evidence of lipid storage disease.Because of a progressive spleen enlargement, splenectomy was performed. Histological examination showed lymphomatous intrasinuses invasion of the spleen.Immunohistochemical investigation revealed the T phenotype of the neoplastic cells: CD45+, CD45RO+,CD3+, CD4-, CD8-, TIA1-. About 50 % of the lymphoid cells expressed CD56 antigen. The diagnosis of hepatosplenic T cell lymphoma was done. The patient was treated with chemotherapy, which induced a complete remission. Eighteen months later, he had a first relapse with increased aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase,thrombocytopenic purpura and blast in the peripheral blood.In spite of autologous bone marrow transplantation, he died twenty months after the diagnosis. Even in the absence of a mass lesion or lymphoadenopathy, hepatosplenic Tcell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient whose clinical course is atypical for acute hepatic dysfunction.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection constitutes a serious global health problem. In countries with intermediate or high endemicity for HBV, exacerbations of chronic hepatitis B may be the first presentation of HBV infec...Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection constitutes a serious global health problem. In countries with intermediate or high endemicity for HBV, exacerbations of chronic hepatitis B may be the first presentation of HBV infection. Some of these patients may be diagnosed mistakenly as having acute hepatitis B. Accurate diagnosis in these cases is very important for deciding whether to start treatment or not, because acute hepatitis B does not require therapy, while exacerbation of chronic hepatitis may benefit from it. Clinical and routine laboratory findings cannot help distinguishing between these two conditions. Therefore, several assays have been proposed for this purpose during the last few years. The presence of high levels of anti-HBe antibodies, HBsAg and HBV DNA are typical of chronic disease, whereas high titers of IgM anti-HBc, together with their high avidity index, characterize acute HBV infection. Starting from the description of a patient with acute hepatitis B-who recently came to our observation-we critically review the currently available assays that may help distinguishing between the different conditions and lead to the optimal management of each patient.展开更多
Sporadic cases of acute viral hepatitis E have been described in developed countries, despite the more common occurrence in endemic areas and developing countries. We present the case of a 58 years old Portuguese fema...Sporadic cases of acute viral hepatitis E have been described in developed countries, despite the more common occurrence in endemic areas and developing countries. We present the case of a 58 years old Portuguese female, with no epidemiological relevant factors, admitted with acute hepatitis with positive anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibody and high serum gamma globulin (> 1.5 fold increase). Serologies for hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, hereditary sensory neuropathy and varicella zoster virus were negative. Liver biopsy histology revealed changes compatible with autoimmune hepatitis. Prednisolone and azathioprine was started. She tested positive for immunoglobulin M anti hepatitis E virus (HEV) with detectable viremia by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique. HEV-RNA was confirmed throughRT-PCR in a liver specimen, establishing the diagnosis of acute hepatitis E. Immunosuppression was stopped. She clinically improved, with resolution of laboratory abnormalities. Therefore, we confirmed acute hepatitis E as the diagnosis. We review the literature to elucidate about HEV infection and its autoimmune effects.展开更多
AIM: We report a case with a prolonged course of hepatitisA, with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) higher than 500 IU/Lfor more than 2 mo.METHODS: A middle-aged woman had an elevated IgG level of more than 2 000 mg/dL, ...AIM: We report a case with a prolonged course of hepatitisA, with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) higher than 500 IU/Lfor more than 2 mo.METHODS: A middle-aged woman had an elevated IgG level of more than 2 000 mg/dL, positive arti-nudear antibodies (ANA) and anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), but no evidence of persistent hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection. Liver biopsy findings were compatible with prolonged acute hepatitis, although acute onset of autoimmune hepatitis could not be ruled out.RESULTS: It was assumed that she developed a course of hepatitis similar to autoimmune hepatitis triggered by HAV infection. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment was initiated and a favorable outcome was obtained. CONCLUSION: We describe a case of a middle-aged woman who showed a prolonged course of acute hepatitis A mimicking autoimmune hepatitis. Treatment with UDCAproved to be effective.展开更多
AIM: To examine the serum from black African patients with acute hepatitis B to ascertain if integrants of viral DNA can be detected in fragments of cellular DNA leaking from damaged hepatocytes into the circulation.M...AIM: To examine the serum from black African patients with acute hepatitis B to ascertain if integrants of viral DNA can be detected in fragments of cellular DNA leaking from damaged hepatocytes into the circulation.METHODS: DNA was extracted from the sera of five patients with uncomplicated acute hepatitis B and one with fulminant disease. Two subgenomic PCRs designed to amplify the complete genome of HBV were used and the resulting amplicons were cloned and sequenced.RESULTS: HBV and chromosomal DNA were amplified from the sera of all the patients. In one patient with uncomplicated disease, HBV DNA was integrated into host chromosome 7 q11.23 in the WBSCR1 gene. The viral DNA comprised 200 nucleotides covering the S and X genes in opposite orientation, with a 1 169 nudeotide deletion. The right virus/host junction was situated at nucleotide 1774 in the cohesive overlap region of the viral genome, at a preferred topoisomerase I cleavage motif. The chromosomal DNA was not rearranged.The patient made a full recovery and seroconverted to anti-HBs- and anti-HBe-positivity. Neither HBV nor chromosomal DNA could be amplified from his serum at that time.CONCLUSION: Integration of viral DNA into chromosomal DNA may occur rarely during acute hepatitis B and, with clonal propagation of the integrant, might play a role in hepatocarcinogenesis.展开更多
Acute hepatitis is a very rare, but potentially fatal, adverse effect of intravenous amiodarone. We present a case of an 88-year-old man with history of ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and severely depressed left vent...Acute hepatitis is a very rare, but potentially fatal, adverse effect of intravenous amiodarone. We present a case of an 88-year-old man with history of ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and severely depressed left ventricular function that was admitted to our coronary care unit with diagnosis of decompensated heart failure and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. A few hours after the beginning of intravenous amiodarone he developed an acute hepatitis. There was a completely recovery within the next days after amiodarone withdrawn and other causes of acute hepatitis have been ruled out. This case highlights the need for close monitoring of hepatic function during amiodarone infusion in order to identify any potential hepatotoxicity and prevent a fatal outcome. Oral amiodarone is, apparently, a safe option in these patients.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Acute liver injury(ALI)refers to inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma without hepatic encephalopathy that lasts less than 6 mo.When the etiology is unknown,Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin(AHUO)can present as a diagnostic and treatment challenge.AHUO in the adult population is unusual and poorly documented.It has an incidence between 11%and 75%.Currently,no treatment guidelines exist.With no identified cause,treatment is often blind,and the wrong treatment plan may have unintended consequences.CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 58-year-old woman who presented to the emergency room for elevated liver function tests(LFTs).Her symptoms started 10 d prior to admission and included nausea,vomiting,jaundice,decreased appetite,weight loss of 10 lbs,and dark urine.She denied drinking alcohol or taking any hepatotoxic agents,including acetaminophen,statins,vitamins,or supplements.She was admitted to the hospital,and an etiologic work-up was carried out.Her initial bloodwork revealed elevated liver enzymes(alanine aminotransferase 2500 U/L,aspartate aminotransferase 3159 U/L,and alkaline phosphatase 714 U/L)and elevated total bilirubin of 6.4 mg/dL.She tested negative for common infectious etiologies such as hepatotropic viruses A,B,C,and E.Further infective work-up revealed negative serology for cytomegalovirus,Epstein-Barr virus,herpes simplex virus 1&2,and human immunodeficiency virus.Her autoanti-body test results were negative,including anti-smooth muscle antibody,anti-mitochondrial antibody,and anti-liver kidney microsome 1 antibody.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography ruled out biliary causes of elevated LFTs,and her core liver biopsy proved inconclusive.Over the course of her hospital stay,the patient's LFTs improved with supportive care and without steroids.CONCLUSION Idiopathic hepatitis makes treatment challenging.It can leave patients feeling confused and unfulfilled.Thus,educating the patient thoroughly for shared decision-making and management becomes essential.
文摘There has been an increasing number of reported cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin in previously healthy children since first reported on March 31,2022.This clinical syndrome is identified by jaundice and markedly elevated liver enzymes with increased aspartate transaminase and/or alanine aminotransa-minase(greater than 500 IU/L).We conducted an inclusive literature review with respect to acute hepatitis outbreaks in children using the search terms acute hepatitis,outbreak,children,severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19),and adenovirus.According to the cumulative data presented in four main studies,the median age is 4 years,with a male predominance(1.3:1).Jaundice was the most common clinical manifestation(69%),followed by vomiting(63%),anorexia(52.9%),diarrhea(47.2%),abdominal pain(39%),pyrexia(33.3%),pale stool(30%),and dark urine(30%).Coryza and lethargy were reported in 16.6%,while pruritus was reported in 2%of cases.Acute liver failure was observed in 25%of cases.The exact mechanism of this acute hepatitis outbreak is still not entirely clear.Adenoviruses and SARS-CoV-2 were detected in a significant number of patients.Coinfection with adenovirus and SARS-CoV-2 could be a possible underlying mechanism.However,other possible infections and mechanisms must be considered in the pathogenesis of this condition.Acute hepatitis of unknown origin in children has been a serious problem since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic but has not yet been sufficiently addressed.Many questions remain regarding the underlying mechanisms leading to acute liver failure in children,and it is likely that extensive future research is needed.
基金supported by the Major Program of National High Technology Research and Development of China(No.2006AA02A209)
文摘Background and Aims Recently, epidemiology studies of hepatitis E in different areas are attracted more attention. Extensive studies of prevalent status and clinical manifestations could help us to broaden our knowledge, so as to excellently prevent and treat hepatitis E. The study analyzed the epidemiological characteristics and clinical features of 394 cases of sporadic acute hepatitis E(AHE) in Southwest of China from 2008 to 2010. Methods The clinical data of 394 cases with sporadic AHE in Southwest of China from 2008 to 2010 were reviewed.Results In the 394 cases with sporadic AHE, the ratio of male/female was 1.432∶1, and the mean age was(31.53 ± 18.12) years. Totally, 94(23.86%) patients aged under 18, 271(68.78%) patients aged between 18 and 60, and 29(7.36%) patients aged above 60. The incidence rate was significantly increased in summer(P = 0.000), especially in May(14.72%) and July(13.71%). In addition, the characteristics of occupation and ethnic group distribution were migrant laborers(106/394, 26.90%) and Han people(365/394, 92.64%). The length of stay, incidence of jaundice, the peak value of total bilirubin and alanine aminotransferase in male patients were all higher than those in female patients significantly(P < 0.05). The prolonged length of stay, decreased levels of ALT/ALB/CHE, increased levels of TBil, and increased incidence of jaundice and fatigue were associated with older age significantly(P < 0.05). The differences in peak values of total bilirubin(TBil), total bile acid(TBA), glutamyltransferase(GGT), cholinesterase(CHE) between AHE group and the groups of AHE accompanied respectively by chronic hepatitis B(CHB), acute alcoholic fatty liver(AFL), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) were significant(P < 0.05). In addition, no significant difference was found in length of stay and biochemical indexes among anti-HEV-Ig G positive group, anti-HEV-Ig M positive group and antiHEV-Ig M/Ig G both positive group(P > 0.05).Conclusions Four epidemiological characteristics, including aged between 18 and 60, male, summer and migrant laborers, are found to be associated with acute hepatitis E. The prognosis of AHE in the majority of patients was favorable, but aged above 60 years and coexistence with CHB, AFL and NAFLD could be considerede as the factors inducing the infaust prognosis.
文摘Hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection after biological accident(needlestick injury) is a rare event.This report describes the first case of acute HCV infection after a needlestick injury in a female nursing student at Padua University Hospital.The student nurse was injured on the second finger of the right hand when recapping a 23-gauge needle after taking a blood sample.The patient who was the source was a 72-year-old female with weakly positive anti-HCV test results.Three months after the injury,at the second step of followup,a relevant increase in transaminases with a low viral replication activity(350 IU/mL) was observed in the student,indicating HCV infection.The patient tested positive for the same genotype(1b) of HCV as the injured student.A rapid decline in transaminases,which was not accompanied by viral clearance,and persistently positive HCV-RNA was described 1 mo later.Six months after testing positive for HCV,the student was treated with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin for 24 wk.A rapid virological response was observed after 4 wk of treatment,and a sustained virological response(SVR) was evident 6 mo after therapy withdrawal,confirming that the patient was definitively cured.Despite the favourable IL28B gene(rs12979860) CC-polymorphism observed in the patient,which is usually predictive of a spontaneous clearance and SVR,spontaneous viral clearance did not take place;however,infection with this genotype was promising for a sustained virological response after therapy.
文摘AIM:To investigate the influence of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection[based on the status of hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg),HBV DNA,and cirrhosis]on superimposed acute hepatitis E.METHODS:A total of 294 patients were recruited from the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Third Affiliated Hospital,Sun Yat-sen University,from January 2003 to January 2012.The patients were classified into two groups:an HBV+hepatitis E virus(HEV)group(a group with chronic HBV infection that was superinfected with acute hepatitis E,n=118)and an HEV group(a group with acute hepatitis E,n=176).We retrospectively analyzed and compared the clinical features of the two groups.Statistical analyses were performed using theχ2test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and the Student’s t test forcontinuous variables.A P value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS:The peak values of prothrombin time,serum total bilirubin,and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores were significantly higher in the HBV+HEV group.More patients in the HBV+HEV group had complications(39.8%vs 16.5%,P=0.000)and developed liver failure(35.6%vs 8.5%,P=0.000).Additionally,the mortality of the HBV+HEV group was significantly higher(20.3%vs 7.4%,P=0.002).Further analysis of the HBV+HEV group showed that there were no significant differences in complication occurrence,liver failure incidence,or mortality between patients with different HBeAg and HBV DNA statuses.However,in patients with underlying cirrhosis,complication occurrence and liver failure incidence significantly increased.In total,12.7%of the patients in the HBV+HEV group received anti-HBV treatment,but this therapy failed to reduce mortality in patients who developed liver failure.CONCLUSION:The presence of underlying cirrhosis in chronic HBV infection results in more severe clinical outcomes with superimposed acute hepatitis E.AntiHBV treatment cannot improve the prognosis of liver failure caused by HBV-HEV superinfection.
基金Supported by A Grant of the Korea Healthcare Technology R-D Project, Ministry of Health and Welfare, South Korea, No.A102065
文摘AIM: To evaluate the significance of computed tomography (CT) findings in relation to liver chemistry and the clinical course of acute hepatitis. METHODS: Four hundred and twelve patients with acute hepatitis who underwent enhanced CT scanning were enrolled retrospectively. Imaging findings were analyzed for the following variables: gallbladder wall thickness (GWT), arterial heterogeneity, periportal tracking, number and maximum size of lymph nodes, presence of ascites, and size of spleen. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, albumin, and prothrombin time were measured on the day of admission and CT scan, and laboratory data were evaluated every 2-4 d for all subjects during hospitalization. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 34.4 years, and the most common cause of hepatitis was hepatitis A virus (77.4%). The mean GWT was 5.2 mm. The number of patients who had findings of arterial heterogeneity, periportal tracking, lymph node enlargement > 7 mm, and ascites was 294 (80.1%), 348 (84.7%), 346 (84.5%), and 56 (13.6%), respectively. On multivariate logistic regression, male gender [odds ratio (OR) = 2.569, 95%CI: 1.477-4.469, P = 0.001], toxic hepatitis (OR = 3.531, 95%CI: 1.444-8.635, P = 0.006), level of albumin (OR = 2.154, 95%CI: 1.279-3.629, P = 0.004), and GWT (OR = 1.061, 95%CI: 1.015-1.110, P = 0.009) were independent predictive factors for severe hepatitis. The level of bilirubin (OR = 1.628, 95%CI: 1.331-1.991, P < 0.001) and GWT (OR = 1.172, 95%CI: 1.024-1.342,P = 0.021) were independent factors for prolonged cholestasis in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: In patients with acute hepatitis, GWT on CT scan was an independent predictor of severe hepatitis and prolonged cholestasis.
基金Supported by Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and the Ministry of Health,Labour and Welfare and the Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Science and Technology of Japan
文摘A 47-year-old man presented with general fatigue and dark urine.The laboratory data showed increased levels of hepatic transaminases.The patient was positive for hepatitis B virus(HBV)markers and negative for antihuman immunodeficiency virus.The HBV-DNA titer was set to 7.7 log copies/mL.The patient was diagnosed with acute hepatitis B.The HBV infection route was obscure.The serum levels of hepatic transaminases decreased to normal ranges without any treatment,but the HBVDNA status was maintained for at least 26 mo,indicating the presence of persistent infection.We isolated HBV from the acute-phase serum and determined the genome sequence.A phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolated HBV was genotype H.In this patient,the elevated peak level of HBV-DNA and the risk alleles at human genome single nucleotide polymorphisms s3077and rs9277535 in the human leukocyte antigen-DP locus were considered to be risk factors for chronic infection.This case suggests that there is a risk of persistent infection by HBV genotype H following acute hepatitis;further cases of HBV genotype H infection must be identified and characterized.Thus,the complete determination of the HBV genotype may be essential during routine clinical care of acute hepatitis B outpatients.
基金Supported by Basic and Clinical Research of Capital Medical University,No. 2010JL10,to Xu B
文摘AIM:To compares the clinical features of patients infected with hepatitis E virus(HEV) with or without severe jaundice.In addition,the risk factors for HEV infection with severe jaundice were investigated.METHODS:We enrolled 235 patients with HEV into a cross-sectional study using multi-stage sampling to select the study group.Patients with possible acute hepatitis E showing elevated liver enzyme levels were screened for HEV infection using serologic and molecular tools.HEV infection was documented by HEV antibodies and by the detection of HEV-RNA in serum.We used χ2 analysis,Fisher's exact test,and Student's t test where appropriate in this study.Significant predictors in the univariate analysis were then included in a forward,stepwise multiple logistic regression model.RESULTS:No significant differences in symptoms,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase,al-kaline phosphatase,or hepatitis B virus surface antigen between the two groups were observed.HEV infected patients with severe jaundice had significantly lower peak serum levels of γ-glutamyl-transpeptidase(GGT)(median:170.31 U/L vs 237.96 U/L,P = 0.007),significantly lower ALB levels(33.84 g/L vs 36.89 g/L,P = 0.000),significantly lower acetylcholine esterase(CHE) levels(4500.93 U/L vs 5815.28 U/L,P = 0.000) and significantly higher total bile acid(TBA) levels(275.56 μmol/L vs 147.03 μmol/L,P = 0.000) than those without severe jaundice.The median of the lowest point time tended to be lower in patients with severe jaundice(81.64% vs 96.12%,P = 0.000).HEV infected patients with severe jaundice had a significantly higher viral load(median:134 vs 112,P = 0.025) than those without severe jaundice.HEV infected patients with severe jaundice showed a trend toward longer median hospital stay(38.17 d vs 18.36 d,P = 0.073).Multivariate logistic regression indicated that there were significant differences in age,sex,viral load,GGT,albumin,TBA,CHE,prothrombin index,alcohol overconsumption,and duration of admission between patients infected with acute hepatitis E with and without severe jaundice.CONCLUSION:Acute hepatitis E patients may naturally present with severe jaundice.
文摘The patient was a 57-year-old woman presenting with jaundice as the chief complaint. She began vomiting on July 10, 2003.Jaundice was noted and admitted to our hospital for thorough testing. Tests on admission indicated severe hepatitis, based on: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), 1 076 IU/L; alanine aminotransferase (ALT), 1 400 IU/L; total bilirubin (TB), 20.9 mg/dL; and prothrombin time rate (PT%), 46.9%. Acute hepatitis A (HA) was diagnosed based on negative hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis C virus RNA and positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M HA antibody, but elevation of anti-nuclear antigen (×320) and IgG (3 112 mg/dL) led to suspicion of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Plasma exchange was performed for 3 d from July 17, and steroid pulse therapy was performed for 3 d starting on July 18, followed by oral steroid therapy. Liver biopsy was performed on August 5, and the results confirmed acute hepatitis and mild chronic inflammation. Levels of AST and ALT normalized,so dose of oral steroid was markedly reduced. Steroid therapy was terminated after 4 mo, as the patient had glaucoma. Starting 3 mo after cessation of steroid therapy,levels of AST and ALT began to increase again. Another liver biopsy was performed and AIH was diagnosed based on serum data and biopsy specimen. Oral steroid therapy was reinitiated. Levels of AST and ALT again normalized.The present case was thus considered to represent AIH triggered by acute HA.
文摘AIM: Aloe vera, plant extracts of Aloe barbadensis miller,is widely used in phytomedicine. The first case of acute hepatitis due to this compound was described.METHODS: Description of a clinical case.RESULTS: Hepatitis in a 57-year old female could be linked to the ingestion of Aloe barbadensis miller compounds. The patient's hepatitis resolved completely after discontinuing this medication.CONCLUSION: The case emphasizes the importance of considering phytopharmaceutical over-the-counter drugs as causative agents of hepatitis.
文摘Alverine citrate is a commonly used smooth muscle relaxant agent. A MEDLINE search on January 2004 revealed only 1 report implicating the hepatotoxicity of this agent. A 34- year-old woman was investigated because of the finding of elevated liver function tests on biochemical screening. Other etiologies of hepatitis were appropriately ruled out and elevated enzymes were ascribed to alverine citrate treatment.Although alverine citrate hepatotoxicity was related to an immune mechanism in the first case, several features such as absence of predictable dose-dependent toxicity of alverine citrate in a previous study and absence of hypersensitivity manifestations in our patient are suggestive of a metabolic type of idiosyncratic toxicity.
文摘Depression is a common disorder amongst the general population and frequently encountered by most physicians. Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) have become the most commonly prescribed antidepressants due to their superiority compared with other antidepressants in the treatment of acute major depression. Although exceedingly rare, hepatotoxicity resulting from sertraline use has been previously reported. In these case reports, the liver injury pattern was predominately hepatocellular. Unlike previous cases, we report the case of a patient presenting with markedly elevated cholestatic enzymes and painless jaundice while taking sertraline for treatment of depression.
基金supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81871709)。
文摘To the Editor:Hepatitis A and hepatitis E are acute infectious diseases caused by hepatitis A virus(HAV)and hepatitis E virus(HEV),which are mainly transmitted through the fecal-oral route[1].The early clinical symptoms of patients with hepatitis A or E are nonspecific,including fever,chills,abdominal pain,diarrhea,and rash[2].
文摘Objective: To investigate the age range, liver functiondamage and prognosis of patients with sporadic acutehepatitis A and E in Beijing.Methods: Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was used todetect anti-HAV and anti-HEV immunoglobulin M(IgM). Serum samples were collected from the pa-tients with sporadic acute viral hepatitis in Beijingfrom January 1995 to June 2000.Results: The total positive rate for anti-HAV and an-ti-HEV IgM was 55.2% (112)in 203 patients with a-cute hepatitis, of whom 22.2% (45 patients) and33.0% (67) were positive for anti-HAV and anti-HEV respectively. The duration of anti-HEV IgMwas 45-60 days and that of anti-HAV IgM was atleast 2-3 months. The patients with acute hepatitis Aand hepatitis E all experienced jaundice and a risingof liver enzyme, but did not develop chronic hepatitisor died.Conclusion: Acute hepatitis A as well as acute hepatitisE plays an important role in sporadic entericallytransmitted hepatitis in Beijing.
文摘We reported a case of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma where liver involvement was the predominant clinical manifestation. A 27-year old man presented wiht markedly elevated serum aspartate aminotrasferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase, reduced prothrombin activity, thrombocytopenic purpura and hepato-splenomegaly without adenopathy. Viral, toxic,autoimmune and metabolic liver diseases were excluded.Bone marrow biopsy showed an intracapillary infiltration of T-lymphocytes with no evidence of lipid storage disease.Because of a progressive spleen enlargement, splenectomy was performed. Histological examination showed lymphomatous intrasinuses invasion of the spleen.Immunohistochemical investigation revealed the T phenotype of the neoplastic cells: CD45+, CD45RO+,CD3+, CD4-, CD8-, TIA1-. About 50 % of the lymphoid cells expressed CD56 antigen. The diagnosis of hepatosplenic T cell lymphoma was done. The patient was treated with chemotherapy, which induced a complete remission. Eighteen months later, he had a first relapse with increased aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase,thrombocytopenic purpura and blast in the peripheral blood.In spite of autologous bone marrow transplantation, he died twenty months after the diagnosis. Even in the absence of a mass lesion or lymphoadenopathy, hepatosplenic Tcell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient whose clinical course is atypical for acute hepatic dysfunction.
文摘Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection constitutes a serious global health problem. In countries with intermediate or high endemicity for HBV, exacerbations of chronic hepatitis B may be the first presentation of HBV infection. Some of these patients may be diagnosed mistakenly as having acute hepatitis B. Accurate diagnosis in these cases is very important for deciding whether to start treatment or not, because acute hepatitis B does not require therapy, while exacerbation of chronic hepatitis may benefit from it. Clinical and routine laboratory findings cannot help distinguishing between these two conditions. Therefore, several assays have been proposed for this purpose during the last few years. The presence of high levels of anti-HBe antibodies, HBsAg and HBV DNA are typical of chronic disease, whereas high titers of IgM anti-HBc, together with their high avidity index, characterize acute HBV infection. Starting from the description of a patient with acute hepatitis B-who recently came to our observation-we critically review the currently available assays that may help distinguishing between the different conditions and lead to the optimal management of each patient.
文摘Sporadic cases of acute viral hepatitis E have been described in developed countries, despite the more common occurrence in endemic areas and developing countries. We present the case of a 58 years old Portuguese female, with no epidemiological relevant factors, admitted with acute hepatitis with positive anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibody and high serum gamma globulin (> 1.5 fold increase). Serologies for hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, hereditary sensory neuropathy and varicella zoster virus were negative. Liver biopsy histology revealed changes compatible with autoimmune hepatitis. Prednisolone and azathioprine was started. She tested positive for immunoglobulin M anti hepatitis E virus (HEV) with detectable viremia by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique. HEV-RNA was confirmed throughRT-PCR in a liver specimen, establishing the diagnosis of acute hepatitis E. Immunosuppression was stopped. She clinically improved, with resolution of laboratory abnormalities. Therefore, we confirmed acute hepatitis E as the diagnosis. We review the literature to elucidate about HEV infection and its autoimmune effects.
文摘AIM: We report a case with a prolonged course of hepatitisA, with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) higher than 500 IU/Lfor more than 2 mo.METHODS: A middle-aged woman had an elevated IgG level of more than 2 000 mg/dL, positive arti-nudear antibodies (ANA) and anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), but no evidence of persistent hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection. Liver biopsy findings were compatible with prolonged acute hepatitis, although acute onset of autoimmune hepatitis could not be ruled out.RESULTS: It was assumed that she developed a course of hepatitis similar to autoimmune hepatitis triggered by HAV infection. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment was initiated and a favorable outcome was obtained. CONCLUSION: We describe a case of a middle-aged woman who showed a prolonged course of acute hepatitis A mimicking autoimmune hepatitis. Treatment with UDCAproved to be effective.
基金Supported by grants from the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation of South African and the HE Griffin Cancer Trust
文摘AIM: To examine the serum from black African patients with acute hepatitis B to ascertain if integrants of viral DNA can be detected in fragments of cellular DNA leaking from damaged hepatocytes into the circulation.METHODS: DNA was extracted from the sera of five patients with uncomplicated acute hepatitis B and one with fulminant disease. Two subgenomic PCRs designed to amplify the complete genome of HBV were used and the resulting amplicons were cloned and sequenced.RESULTS: HBV and chromosomal DNA were amplified from the sera of all the patients. In one patient with uncomplicated disease, HBV DNA was integrated into host chromosome 7 q11.23 in the WBSCR1 gene. The viral DNA comprised 200 nucleotides covering the S and X genes in opposite orientation, with a 1 169 nudeotide deletion. The right virus/host junction was situated at nucleotide 1774 in the cohesive overlap region of the viral genome, at a preferred topoisomerase I cleavage motif. The chromosomal DNA was not rearranged.The patient made a full recovery and seroconverted to anti-HBs- and anti-HBe-positivity. Neither HBV nor chromosomal DNA could be amplified from his serum at that time.CONCLUSION: Integration of viral DNA into chromosomal DNA may occur rarely during acute hepatitis B and, with clonal propagation of the integrant, might play a role in hepatocarcinogenesis.
文摘Acute hepatitis is a very rare, but potentially fatal, adverse effect of intravenous amiodarone. We present a case of an 88-year-old man with history of ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and severely depressed left ventricular function that was admitted to our coronary care unit with diagnosis of decompensated heart failure and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. A few hours after the beginning of intravenous amiodarone he developed an acute hepatitis. There was a completely recovery within the next days after amiodarone withdrawn and other causes of acute hepatitis have been ruled out. This case highlights the need for close monitoring of hepatic function during amiodarone infusion in order to identify any potential hepatotoxicity and prevent a fatal outcome. Oral amiodarone is, apparently, a safe option in these patients.
