Genetic risk factors for drug-induced liver injury in rheumatoid arthritis patients using low-dose methotrexate

Pharmacogenomics. 2013 Jan;14(1):63-73. doi: 10.2217/pgs.12.183.

Abstract

Low-dose methotrexate (MTX) is part of the mainstay of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Hepatotoxicity is among the most feared side effects of low-dose MTX and is associated with increased morbidity. At present, histological evaluation of liver biopsies is the gold standard to retrospectively diagnose MTX-induced liver damage. Genetic markers present an interesting opportunity to preemptively identify patients at risk for MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. Here, we will review the literature on candidate genetic markers for the risk of MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. These candidate genetic markers include polymorphisms in the gene encoding the enzyme MTHFR.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antirheumatic Agents / adverse effects
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy*
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / genetics*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Methotrexate / administration & dosage*
  • Methotrexate / adverse effects*
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Methotrexate