1992 Multistate Outbreak of Toxic Hepatitis Linked to Chaparral Supplements

Two cases of toxic hepatitis, one in California and one in Texas, were attributed to the ingestion of an herbal supplement. The supplement was made from the creosote bush, chaparral. Both persons developed acute hepatitis. Laboratory tests for viral hepatitis were all negative. Once the patients stopped using the supplements, liver function rapidly improved. Only one case of liver toxicity related to chaparral had been reported previously.

Overview

Outbreak began:July 1992
Affected country:US
States/territories:CA, TX
Pathogen:Hepatitis
Vehicle(s):Supplement
Location(s):Retail
Molecular test results:no

Health impact

Total ill:2

Sources & documents

Report / reference links