Acute hepatitis induced by an Aloe vera preparation: a case report

Abstract

Aim: Aloe vera, plant extracts of Aloe barbadensis miller, is widely used in phytomedicine. The first case of acute hepatitis due to this compound was described.

Methods: Description of a clinical case.

Results: Hepatitis in a 57-year old female could be linked to the ingestion of Aloe barbadensis miller compounds. The patient's hepatitis resolved completely after discontinuing this medication.

Conclusion: The case emphasizes the importance of considering phytopharmaceutical over-the-counter drugs as causative agents of hepatitis.

Figures

Figure 1

Severe acute hepatitis with portal and acinar inflammatory infiltrates mainly composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and eosinophilic granulocytes revealed in liver biopsy. A: Disseminated single-cell and group-cell necroses as well as parenchymal regeneration (H&E). B: Perivenular parenchyma with single cell necroses, regeneration and bilirubinostasis (H&E). C: Largely preserved architecture and only minimally increased fiber deposition in a representative portal tract shown by connective tissue stain (mo. Gomori).