title: Pemoline hepatotoxicity in children.
abstract: Pemoline hepatotoxicity ranges from asymptomatic elevations in levels of serum aminotransferases to fulminant liver failure. We report five cases of pemoline hepatotoxicity in children (four boys, one girl), including the only reported case resulting in orthotopic liver transplantation. We conclude that pemoline causes toxic liver damage in children. The severity of the damage is highly variable, and its onset may be late in the course of treatment. Pemoline and methylphenidate may act synergistically to cause liver damage. The levels of serum aminotransferases should be monitored throughout treatment with these agents.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Marotta
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Roberts
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000469:Alkaline Phosphatase / Q000378:metabolism; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D056486:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / Q000201:enzymology*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010389:Pemoline / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000637:Transaminases / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D010389:Pemoline; D000637:Transaminases; D000469:Alkaline Phosphatase