Unusual Case of Simultaneous Acute Hepatitis and Acute Pancreatitis in a Bodybuilder

Abstract

The use of anabolic steroids is widespread, particularly among bodybuilders. Most athletes have only a crude pharmacological knowledge regarding these drugs and warnings of steroid misuse are neglected. The illicit use of Androgenic Anabolic Steroids (AAS) to obtain an athletic, healthy looking body can lead to serious and often irreversible organ damage [1]. Anabolic steroids with 17 alpha carbon substitutions have been associated with a cholestatic injury with little hepatocellular injury. In the case of hepatoxicity and severe cholestasis the prompt withdrawal of the steroid and the administration of ursodeoxycholic acid are recommended [2]. Steroid also is known to cause acute pancreatitis which would result in acute onset abdominal pain and vomiting. Possible mechanisms for drug-induced pancreatitis include immune-mediated inflammatory response, direct cellular toxicity, arteriolar thrombosis, and metabolic effects.