Severe propylthiouracil-induced hepatotoxicity in pregnancy managed successfully by liver transplantation: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. Propylthiouracil-induced severe hepatotoxicity is a relatively rare occurrence, with very few cases reported in the literature. The management of this complication in pregnancy can be a challenge because of the effects of the various treatment options on the fetus. Case presentation. We report a rare case of fulminant hepatic failure in a 36-year-old gravida 2 black woman of African descent that occurred at 17 weeks gestation following propylthiouracil treatment for Graves' disease. Her liver failure was managed by liver transplantation and thyroidectomy. Her pregnancy was continued to term, though with not so favorable early childhood sequelae. Conclusion: This case illustrates a very rare complication of treatment with a presumed safe drug during pregnancy followed by adverse neonatal outcomes due to the extensive treatment. © 2011 Sequeira et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.