Hepatic Steatosis and Acute Liver Injury in Chronic Arsenic Exposure
October 2022
in “
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
”
TLDR Chronic arsenic exposure can cause liver damage and other health issues.
This case study describes a 29-year-old woman with chronic arsenic exposure leading to hepatic steatosis and acute liver injury. Despite initial negative tests for heavy metals, elevated arsenic levels were found in her hair and nails. Her symptoms included abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, polyneuropathy, and significant weight loss. Liver biopsy showed non-cirrhotic portal fibrosis and severe steatosis. The study highlights the importance of considering metal toxicity in liver injury diagnosis, as arsenic exposure was linked to her liver condition and other symptoms, influencing the management and care approach.