Stanozolol as a trigger of drug-induced liver injury (DILI): A case report in a young patient
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59093/27112330.163Keywords:
stanozolol, anabolic steroids, cholestasis, drug-induced liver disease.Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a rare but clinically relevant condition, the diagnosis of which can be complex due to the variability of its manifestations and the need to exclude other causes. Anabolic-androgenic steroids, especially 17α-alkylated derivatives such as stanozolol, can cause dose-dependent hepatotoxicity, usually with a cholestatic pattern. We describe the case of a previously healthy 33-year-old woman who developed jaundice, pruritus, and choluria after the cosmetic use of injectable stanozolol. Laboratory studies showed direct hyperbilirubinemia and a moderate elevation of aminotransferases, while liver biopsy confirmed cytoplasmic cholestasis with portal inflammation. Despite meeting Hy's Law criteria, she did not develop with acute liver failure. Management was based on definitive discontinuation of the drug and symptomatic treatment with cholestyramine and ursodeoxycholic acid, with progressive clinical resolution. This case highlights the importance of suspecting DILI associated with anabolic steroids, making an early diagnosis, and educating the population about the risks of unsupervised use.Downloads
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