[Drug-induced hepatotoxicity: clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients and a review of the literature].

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity: clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients and a review of the literature. Drug-induced hepatotoxicity is a major cause of iatrogenic diseases. More than 1200 compounds are involved and can reproduce the full range of hepatic disorders. Clinical and biochemical features of 26 patients (13 men and 13 women, mean age 62 years) observed during a 6 years period were reported. The potential hepatotoxicity of some herbal remedies are described, emphasizing the relevance of misconception that herbs are devoid of toxic potential because they are natural products. Meticulous taking of patient history, drug history with specific queries about ingestion of herbal and dietary supplements, and the exclusion of other causes of liver disease are important for the early detection of drug-induced hepatotoxicity and rapid discontinuation of suspected drug(s).