On January 21st, Military Central Hospital 108 announced a severe case where a 43-year-old man suffered from acute liver failure due to the use of herbal medicines of unknown origin. Thanks to timely intervention with a liver transplant from a brain-dead organ donor, the patient survived.
Miraculous Recovery Journey
The Department of Critical Care and Transplantation at Military Central Hospital 108 admitted the patient in critical condition with a diagnosis of acute liver failure. According to the patient’s account, he had started using herbal medicines for enhancing his vitality about a month before admission. However, after just a few weeks, symptoms such as jaundice, yellowing eyes, and fatigue worsened. Notably, the patient had no history of liver disease or alcohol consumption.
Liver transplant saving a life
Illustrative image showing the recovery process after a successful liver transplant.
After necessary tests, doctors identified the primary cause as drug poisoning. Despite medical treatment, the patient’s condition did not improve, leading to advanced stages of liver failure (degree 2-3) and threatening his life. Fortunately, at the critical moment, a brain-dead donor was available. The compatible liver graft from the donor saved the patient’s life. Following surgery and intensive care, the patient gradually recovered and returned to normal life.
Warning on the Risks of Using Unverified Herbal Medicines
Health experts emphasize that this is not an isolated case. The Department of Critical Care and Transplantation has previously treated many patients suffering from acute liver failure due to self-administered herbal medicines of unknown origin or擅自修改
