One case of fulminant hepatic failure related to Dictamnus dasycarpus / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

We report a case of fulminant hepatic failure related to ingesting Dictamnus dasycarpus. The patient had taken D. dasycarpus for 8 weeks after boiling down the root of D. dasycarpus in water, to promote health. The main symptoms and signs were general weakness and jaundice. Serology found no evidence of hepatitis A, B, or C infections. Imaging studies, including abdominal ultrasonography and abdominal computed tomography, did not reveal any bile duct structural abnormalities. Based on the RUCAM score (8 points), D. dasycarpus was the probable cause for the drug-induced liver injury. Despite meticulous monitoring and supportive care, the patient died by a progression to fulminant hepatic failure. This case indicates that D. dasycarpus can cause lethal outcomes by fulminant hepatic failure.