Riya (name changed), a 39-year-old woman, was brought to the Emergency Department at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, with complaints of extreme fatigue, persistent vomiting, and yellowing of her eyes and skin. Her family also reported increasing confusion and drowsiness over the past day. During her consultation, we learned that she had been experiencing nausea and abdominal discomfort for several days, which she had ignored, assuming it was a minor illness. She had recently started a new medication for a routine infection, unaware that it could trigger a rare and severe reaction. Our doctors at Artemis Hospitals immediately recognised the seriousness of her condition and began urgent evaluation.
Riya’s condition was critical, so the medical team acted with speed and precision. Blood tests revealed severely abnormal liver function, dangerous clotting disturbances, and rising toxin levels in her bloodstream—clear indicators of acute liver failure. Additional investigations ruled out viral hepatitis and other common causes, pointing toward a rare drug-induced liver injury. She was immediately shifted to the Intensive Care Unit, where intensive supportive treatment was started to stabilise her condition and protect vital organs.
Despite stopping the offending medication and providing advanced medical care, Riya’s condition continued to deteriorate. Her mental status worsened as toxins accumulated, and her liver showed no signs of recovery. Recognising that time was critical, our hepatology and transplant teams worked swiftly and made the decision to list her for an emergency liver transplant, which was her only chance of survival.
Once a suitable donor liver became available, Riya was taken in for an emergency liver transplant. The complex and high-risk procedure was performed successfully by our experienced liver transplant surgeons, and the new liver began functioning immediately, marking a crucial turning point in her recovery.
Riya’s progress after surgery was closely monitored in the Transplant Intensive Care Unit. Over the following days, her liver function improved steadily, her mental clarity returned, and her strength gradually increased. With continued care and rehabilitation support, she made a remarkable recovery. She was discharged after a few weeks and continued regular follow-ups. Today, Riya is leading a healthy life, a testament to timely intervention and life-saving transplant care.
This case highlights the importance of not ignoring persistent symptoms and seeking medical attention early. Rare drug reactions can escalate rapidly, but prompt diagnosis, swift action, and access to advanced transplant services can save lives.
