Recurrent high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone succinate pulse therapy-induced hepatopathy in a patient with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: We describe recurrent and reversible hepatopathy in a girl with multiple sclerosis (MS) after glucocorticoid pulse therapy, to point out the possibility that glucocorticoid may harm the liver. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: An 11-year-old girl with MS, who was treated with high-dose methylprednisolone succinate pulse therapy, developed elevation of liver enzymes. The episodes of hepatopathy occurred 1-5 weeks after the therapy and disappeared within several weeks. The examination for antinuclear antibody and viruses which can cause hepatitis produced negative results. Conclusion: The present case emphasizes the possible effects of high-dose glucocorticoids in the induction of liver enzymes and the importance of follow-up liver tests after pulse therapy. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.