Incidence of anti-tuberculosis drug induced liver injuries in patients receiving therapy at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi: A cross-sectional study

Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of anti-tuberculosis drug induced liver injury ( AT-DILI) while assessing gender differences and documenting incidence trends. Methodology: We utilized a questionnaire survey, collection of sputum samples for acid-fast bacilli testing and liver function tests (LFTs). Results: Out 100 patients, 35 were males and 65 females. A total of 45 patients were tested positive for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) on smear. Most patients exhibited regular LFT results, signifying unremarkable hepatic function during TB therapy. However, among relapse and post-TB cases, abnormal LFT findings were often accompanied by jaundice. Conclusion: Among relapse and post-TB cases, abnormal LFT findings were often accompanied by jaundice. Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms behind this increased vulnerability to prevent AT-DILI in populations.