From the Guidelines
Yes, there are documented cases of peliosis hepatis associated with stanozolol use, as indicated by the side effects listed for 17a-Alkylated androgens, including stanozolol, in the provided evidence 1. Peliosis hepatis is a rare vascular condition characterized by blood-filled cystic spaces in the liver, and it has been reported as a complication of anabolic steroid use, including stanozolol. This androgenic anabolic steroid, sometimes prescribed for conditions like hereditary angioedema or certain anemias, has been linked to several cases of peliosis hepatis, particularly with prolonged use or high doses. The mechanism likely involves the steroid's effects on hepatic blood vessels, causing endothelial damage and subsequent formation of blood-filled cavities. Some key points to consider regarding stanozolol and peliosis hepatis include:
- The condition may be reversible upon discontinuation of the steroid, though complete resolution can take months.
- Patients using stanozolol should be monitored for signs of liver dysfunction, including abdominal pain, jaundice, or abnormal liver function tests.
- Healthcare providers should consider discontinuing stanozolol if liver abnormalities develop, as peliosis hepatis can potentially lead to serious complications including liver failure or hemorrhage, as seen with other 17a-Alkylated androgens like danazol 1. Given the potential for serious liver complications, it is crucial to weigh the benefits of stanozolol use against the risks, particularly in patients with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking high doses for extended periods 1.
From the Research
Peliosis Hepatis and Stanozolol
- Peliosis hepatis is a rare liver disorder characterized by the presence of blood-filled cavities within the liver parenchyma.
- There are cases of peliosis hepatis associated with the use of anabolic androgenic steroids, including stanozolol 2.
- A study published in 1983 found that long-term treatment with low doses of danazol or stanozolol did not induce significant hepatic damage detectable by laboratory tests or liver biopsy in 13 patients with hereditary angioedema 2.
- However, other studies have reported that anabolic androgenic steroids, including stanozolol, can cause liver toxicity, including peliosis hepatis, cholestatic jaundice, and liver tumors 3, 4, 5.
- The exact mechanism of peliosis hepatis associated with stanozolol is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve disturbance of antioxidative factors, upregulation of bile acid synthesis, and induction of hepatocyte hyperplasia 4.
- It is essential to recognize peliosis hepatis in the differential diagnosis of liver lesions, particularly in patients with a history of anabolic androgenic steroid use 6.