Esomeprazole-Induced Hepatitis

A 63-year-old man developed hepatitis after being administered esomeprazole for gastrointestinal prophylaxis during a hospital stay. His liver function tests (LFTs) showed significant elevation shortly after starting esomeprazole, which normalized after discontinuation of the drug. Upon re-administration of esomeprazole, LFTs rose again, confirming a diagnosis of esomeprazole-induced hepatitis. This case was notable as it was the first reported instance of esomeprazole causing hepatic injury, although other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole, pantoprazole, and lansoprazole had been previously implicated. The study highlighted the importance of considering PPI-induced hepatitis in patients with unexplained liver injury.