Halothane Induced Hepatitis (CME).

Halothane is a halogenated inhalation anesthetic. Its three trace elements are fluoride, chloride and bromide. Fluoride is well known by biochemists to be an inhibitor of enzymes. Fluoride forms a strong hydrogen bond with the amide group, and thus has the potential to interfere with fundamental life-processes involving the shape and function of both proteins and nucleic acids. Patients with halothane hepatitis or severe hepatic damage due to other halogenated anesthetics produce antibodies against several liver trifluoroacetylated microsomal proteins. Other studies suggest that molecular mimicry of N6-trifluoroacetyl-L-lysin by lipoic acid, or the impairment thereof, might play a role in the susceptibility of individuals for the development of halothane hepatitis. The spectrum of disease differs from aminotransferase elevation either without symptoms or with mild, self-limited symptoms to severe hepatitis or acute liver failure. More investigation is needed to understand the mechanisms of halothane hepatotoxicity. The aim of our report is to prevent, recognize and manage the complications of hepatitis associated with halothane administration.