Acute Hepatitis and Pancytopenia in a Child With Chronic Abuse of Senna

In 2021, a case study reported a child who developed acute hepatitis and pancytopenia due to chronic abuse of Senna, a herbal laxative. The child had been regularly consuming Senna to treat chronic constipation. Symptoms included unconsciousness, generalized hypotonia, gum bleeding, facial erythrosis with peeling cheeks, hair loss (telogen effluvium), erythematous lesions ulcers of the anal margin, and fever. The study suggested that the pancytopenia was likely due to the toxic effects of Senna, which may be associated with bone marrow and liver toxicity and lead to deep vein thrombosis. The child's condition improved after discontinuing Senna and receiving appropriate medical treatment, including appetite recovery and hair regrowth. This case emphasized the potential dangers of chronic Senna use, especially in children, and the importance of monitoring and regulating its consumption.