INVESTIGATIONS OF LIVER-DISEASE AND DRUG TOXICITY

Investigation of patients with severe liver disease, particularly candidates for liver transplantation, now includes quantitative studies of drug metabolism and clearance in attempts to improve prediction of short- and medium-term prognosis. Radiologic investigation of the liver has become more sophisticated and more commonly used. As a result focal hepatic disease has become an ever increasing clinical problem for radiologists and practitioners alike. Drug hepatotoxicity continues to be encountered and explored. To some degree there has been an effort to seek common ground between the "metabolists" and the "immunoallergists" regarding mechanisms of drug-induced liver injury. More has been learned of some familiar hepatotoxins and other drugs have been recognized as potential hepatotoxins. The occurrence of liver injury with parenteral nutrition regimens continues to pose management difficulties, without there being obvious explanations.