A case with hepatic fibrosis showing ascites and esophageal varices induced by oral UFTR administration

An 81-year-old male patient developed hepatic fibrosis with ascites and esophageal varices 4 years after oral administration of UFT R as postoperative adjuvant therapy for lung cancer. Although serum transaminase levels remained normal during follow-up periods, ascites developed 3 years after the treatment, and disappeared rapidly after the cessation of UFT R , but recurred by accidental readministration of UFT R . Serum markers for hepatitis viruses, various auto antibodies and a history of alcoholic abuse were all negative. Liver biopsy showed mild to moderate hepatic fibrosis without hepatocellular necrosis. Serum levels of N-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen, 7S fragment of type IV collagen and hyaluronic acid were elevated at diagnosis and decreased after the discontinuation of UFT R . Esophageal varices were also improved. These findings suggest that hepatic fibrosis can be induced by oral administration of UFT R and that serum fibrogenesis/fibrosis markers are useful for early diagnosis of UFT R -induced hepatic fibrosis.