Drug-induced hepatotoxicity: mechanisms, risks and pediatric particularities

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity represents a significant risk in medical practice, severely impacting liver function. It can occur through intrinsic, predictable, dose-dependent me­cha­nisms, such as acetaminophen overdose, or through unpredictable idiosyncratic reactions mediated im­mu­no­lo­gi­cally or metabolically. The pediatric population is especially sus­cep­ti­ble to these adverse effects due to hepatic enzyme im­ma­tu­rity and age-specific pharmacokinetic characteristics. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are crucial for pre­venting progression to acute liver failure. The the­ra­peu­tic management involves discontinuing the implicated me­di­ca­tion, administering specific antidotes and, in severe cases, liver transplantation. Enhanced understanding of he­pa­to­to­xi­city mechanisms can improve prevention and prog­no­sis for this serious condition.