Acute liver failure associated with occupational exposure to tetrachloroethylene

J Korean Med Sci. 2011 Jan;26(1):138-42. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2011.26.1.138. Epub 2010 Dec 22.

Abstract

Tetrachloroethylene is a chlorinated solvent that is primarily used in dry cleaning and degreasing operations. Although the hepatotoxicity caused by tetrachloroethylene has been well documented in literature, it is rarely considered as a cause of acute liver failure. We report a case of a 39-yr-old man who was admitted to our hospital for acute liver failure due to tetrachloroethylene exposure. Histological examination of the liver revealed massive hepatic necrosis, prominently, in zone 3 of the hepatic lobules. The patient underwent supportive treatment along with 3 sessions of plasmapheresis, and consequently, he presented a favorable outcome. Repeat liver biopsy performed 6 months after the patient's discharge showed architectural distortion with postnecrotic cirrhosis. Physicians should be aware of the possibility of acute liver failure induced by tetrachloroethylene. Early plasmapheresis can be effective for individuals with sufficient capacity for hepatocyte regeneration.

Keywords: Drug-induced Liver Injury; Liver Failure, Acute; Plasma Exchange; Tetrachloroethylene.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carcinogens / toxicity*
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / pathology
  • Liver Failure, Acute / chemically induced
  • Liver Failure, Acute / diagnosis*
  • Liver Failure, Acute / pathology
  • Male
  • Occupational Exposure*
  • Plasmapheresis
  • Tetrachloroethylene / toxicity*

Substances

  • Carcinogens
  • Tetrachloroethylene