Obsessive Skincare and Liver Toxicity: A Case Report on Titanium Dioxide Exposure

Authors : Fatih Öner Kaya, Mohammad Jamal Abunawas, Pınar Mert

Pages : 81-85

Doi:10.35514/mtd.2024.116

View : 35 | Download : 98

Publication Date : 2024-12-31

Article Type : Other Papers

Abstract :This Case Report highlights the role of titanium dioxide (TiO2) as a perpetrator of liver toxicity when used topically. Although the European Commission has banned titanium dioxide (E171) from being used as a food additive, it is still widely used in dermatological products. Here, we describe a patient who initially presented to our clinic after experiencing a seizure. An inquiry into her history revealed that she had been suffering from generalized body aches and skin rashes for the past month. Incidentally, liver enzymes were found to be significantly elevated, and abdominal ultrasonography revealed hepatomegaly and hepatic steatosis, which was confirmed by a liver biopsy. Further investigation brought to light the patient’s obsessive skincare habits, requiring broader tests to detect any toxic exposure. Thereupon, high amounts of titanium were found in her blood results. TiO2 particles are associated with hazardous properties and pose a threat to human health and the environment; thus, its enormous usage in various products requires further studies that investigate the various ways of exposure to minimize those toxic effects.
Keywords : Karaciğer Toksisitesi, Titanyum dioksit, Dermatolojik ürünlerin yan etkileri.