Turmeric-Induced Liver Injury

Abstract

Turmeric and its active compound, curcumin, has gained popularity as an herbal supplement due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, the lack of standardized regulation for herbal supplements raises concerns about potential side effects and toxicity. This case report presents a 53-year-old woman with Behçet disease who developed biopsy-proven drug-induced liver injury (DILI) after initiating a turmeric supplement, with resolution of laboratory abnormalities after a positive supplement de-challenge. This case highlights the importance of noting herbal supplementation during medication reconciliation and underscores the need for rigorous regulatory oversight to ensure the safety of such products.

Keywords: Curcuma longa; Curcumin; Drug-Induced Liver Injury; Herbal Supplements; Turmeric; Turmeric-Associated DILI.

Figure 1.. Liver biopsy findings showing moderate to marked lobular, portal, and interface hepatitis with inflammatory infiltrate consisting mainly of lymphocytes, eosinophils, and neutrophils. No evidence of hepatocyte collapse, steatosis or fibrosis seen.

Figure 2.. Liver function tests normalization timeline after turmeric-associated drug-induced liver injury. AST/ALT = aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (normal: AST 0-32 IU/L, ALT 0-33 IU/L), ALP = alkaline phosphatase (normal: 39-117 IU/L).