Fatal hepatorenal failure associated with hydrazine sulfate.
BACKGROUND
The Internet has revolutionized the manner in which patients obtain information about health care. This technology has also allowed patients to obtain directly both prescription and nonprescription therapies.


OBJECTIVE
To report a case of fulminant hepatorenal failure associated with the use of hydrazine sulfate, an unregulated alternative remedy for cancer marketed on the Internet.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
Academic medical center.


METHODS
A 55-year-old man with maxillary sinus cancer.


METHODS
Self-medication with hydrazine sulfate.


METHODS
Serum liver and renal function tests; histologic evaluation of liver and kidney tissue.


RESULTS
The patient developed hepatic encephalopathy, renal failure, and profound coagulopathy. He died after severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage developed. Autopsy revealed autolysis of the kidneys and submassive bridging necrosis of the liver.


CONCLUSIONS
Fatal hepatorenal failure may occur after the use of hydrazine sulfate. This fatal complication must be considered in anyone taking or contemplating the use of hydrazine sulfate.
Hainer
M I
MI
Department of Internal Medicine, Moncrief Army Community Hospital, Fort Jackson, SC 29207, USA. mark.hainer@se.amedd.army.mil
Tsai
N
N
Komura
S T
ST
Chiu
C L
CL
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006501:Hepatic Encephalopathy / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D006834:Hydrazines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020407:Internet; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008444:Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D051437:Renal Insufficiency / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology; D012651:Self Medication / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D006834:Hydrazines; C029424:hydrazine