Moxifloxacin induced fatal hepatotoxicity in a 72-year-old man: a case report

Moxifloxacin is a newer-generation synthetic fluoroquinolone that is used for treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis, acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community acquired pneumonia, intra-abdominal infections and skin/skin structure infections. We describe a case of fatal hepatotoxicity caused by Moxifloxacin in a 72-year-old man. He presented with jaundice and epigastric tenderness that started one week after being treated for acute exacerbation of his chronic bronchitis with Moxifloxacin by his primary care physician. He was admitted to intensive care unit for close monitoring. His labs showed marked elevation in liver enzymes and bilirubin. His condition continued to deteriorate in intensive care unit despite supportive care. Acute hepatic failure which resulted in his death was attributed to idiosyncratic reaction to Moxifloxacin.