Imatinib mesylate-induced acute hepatitis in a patient treated for gastrointestinal stromal tumour

Abstract

We report the first case of hepatocellular injury occurring in a patient treated for metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) with imatinib mesylate, with two positive rechallenges including one with 2.5% of the current therapeutic dosage. The patient could be treated later with sunitinib without liver toxicity. Grade 3-4 liver toxicity could occur in one out of 40 treated patients with imatinib for GIST, and fatalities have been reported. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential in patients treated with imatinib.