Levetiracetam following liver and kidney failure in late-onset anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome

J Clin Neurosci. 2014 May;21(5):859-60. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2013.06.022. Epub 2013 Sep 4.

Abstract

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is an adverse drug reaction usually occurring from 1 to 8 weeks after exposure to antiepileptic drugs. It can threaten life by affecting the liver, kidneys, central nervous system or lungs. We present a 47-year-old patient treated with phenytoin, lamotrigine and clobazam for 7 years. He presented with hepatic and renal failure in relation to this syndrome demonstrated by renal biopsy. Prognosis was excellent due to an early diagnosis leading to cessation of the causative agents. Levetiracetam was started with a good response.

Keywords: Acute interstitial nephritis; Hypersensitivity syndrome; Late-onset; Levetiracetam.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Drug Hypersensitivity Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Epilepsy / diagnosis
  • Epilepsy / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Levetiracetam
  • Liver Failure / chemically induced
  • Liver Failure / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Piracetam / analogs & derivatives*
  • Piracetam / therapeutic use
  • Renal Insufficiency / chemically induced
  • Renal Insufficiency / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Levetiracetam
  • Piracetam