Boldo-Induced Hepatotoxicity: A Case of Unexplained Jaundice.

An 87-year-old man was admitted with a 2-week history of asthenia, anorexia and jaundice. Blood tests showed increased serum liver enzymes. The aetiological study was inconclusive. The patient had a favourable clinical evolution during hospitalization with supportive care. His wife revealed that the patient had repeatedly consumed infusions of Peumus boldus (commonly known as boldo) leaves during the previous month. After common causes of hepatobiliary pathology were excluded, boldo-induced hepatotoxicity was considered probable. Cessation of its consumption led to complete clinical and laboratory recovery within a week. LEARNING POINTS: Herbal medicines are commonly used by the public.Peumus boldus leaves consumed as an infusion can be hepatotoxic and may cause otherwise unexplained jaundice or abnormal liver enzyme values, particularly in elderly patients.A detailed clinical history is crucial to establish the consumption of alternative medicines in order to identify possible adverse effects and toxicity. © EFIM 2020.