A Case of Acute Toxic Hepatitis induced by brief exposure to Dimethylformamide.
- Author:
Jong Rae ROH
1
;
Jin Gun SOHN
;
Jin Ha KIM
;
Sun Ja PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gospel Hospital, Kosin University, Korea. saewoomm@hanmail.net
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Dimethylformamide;
Toxic Hepatitis
- MeSH:
Abdominal Pain;
Anorexia;
Diagnosis;
Dimethylformamide*;
Drug-Induced Liver Injury*;
Hepatitis;
Hepatitis, Alcoholic;
Humans;
Inhalation;
Liver;
Liver Function Tests;
Male;
Nausea;
Occupational Exposure;
Skin;
Solvents;
Thorax;
Vomiting;
Young Adult
- From:Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
2005;17(2):144-148
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Dimethylformamide (DMF), a widely used industrial solvent, has been reported to induce subtle to clinically overt hepatotoxicity. Liver injury due to occupational exposure through inhalation and skin contact has been sporadically reported. We report a 23-year-old male who developed intermittent abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, chest discomfort, and general weakness for 4 days after working in a plastic-coated-glove factory. An acute hepatitis episode occurred after working in an enclosed workplace for 3 days. Other causes of hepatitis such as viral, drug induced or alcoholic hepatitis, could be excluded or were considered to be unlikely. Based on occupational history, serological examination and serial liver function examinations, the case was compatible with DMF-induced acute toxic hepatitis. Hepatotoxicity due to occupational exposure to solvents (e.g., DMF) should be considered in any patient with unexplained hepatitis. The fast improvement of the clinical symptoms and the progressive normalization of the liver function tests once the DMF exposure has been stopped, supports the diagnosis.
