Hepatic function in relation to acetylator phenotype in children treated with antitubercular drugs.

Sixty-six children suffering from pulmonary primary complex were investigated for evidence of hepatotoxicity (clinical and biochemical), in relation to the type of acetylator. Acetylator phenotype was determined by the sulphadimidine acetylation test in urine. A large proportion (83.0%) of the children were either normally nourished or had only grade-I malnutrition. Estimation of the levels of SGOT and SGPT determined before therapy and at monthly intervals for the first three months, and then three monthly for one year, did not indicate any biochemical evidence of hepatic derangement in relation to the type of acetylator. Hepatotoxicity of antitubercular drugs is greatly reduced when isoniazid and rifampin are used in lower dosages regardless of acetylator phenotype. Mild degree of malnutrition does not predispose the child to more hepatotoxicity.