Substantial Elevation of Liver Enzymes During Ketamine Infusion: A Case Report

A A Pract. 2020 Jun;14(8):e01239. doi: 10.1213/XAA.0000000000001239.

Abstract

Intravenous infusion of a subanesthetic dose of ketamine has been shown to improve neuropathic pain. However, ketamine-induced liver injury can occur. Reported here are 2 cases with substantial liver enzyme elevations less than 2 days after initiation of repeat ketamine infusion at least 7 months after the last infusion. Although their liver enzymes normalized within a few weeks, it is unclear what the long-term consequences are. Furthermore, drug-induced liver injury can cause acute liver failure. Therefore, we recommend close monitoring of liver enzymes every 1 to 2 days during ketamine infusions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / administration & dosage
  • Analgesics / adverse effects
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / diagnosis*
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndromes / diagnosis
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndromes / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous / methods
  • Ketamine / administration & dosage
  • Ketamine / adverse effects*
  • Liver / drug effects*
  • Liver / enzymology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Withholding Treatment

Substances

  • Analgesics
  • Ketamine