Imatinib-induced hepatitis treated by corticosteroids in a patient with metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Yeungnam Univ J Med. 2019 May;36(2):155-158. doi: 10.12701/yujm.2019.00115. Epub 2019 Jan 21.

Abstract

Imatinib mesylate is currently used as the first-line treatment for metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Imatinib-induced hepatotoxicity in patients with GIST is very rare. Its features vary from subclinical elevation of serum aminotransferase to clinically apparent acute hepatitis, which is associated with immunologic reactions. Imatinib-induced hepatotoxicity with autoimmune-like features can be treated by the discontinuation of imatinib mesylate and the administration of oral steroids. Here, we report a case of late-onset imatinib-induced hepatitis with autoimmune-like features in a patient with metastatic GIST, which was improved by oral corticosteroids.

Keywords: Corticosteroids; Drug-induced liver injury; Gastrointestinal stromal tumors; Imatinib mesylate.

Publication types

  • Case Reports