Spectrum of anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome: controversy of treatment

J Child Neurol. 2004 Aug;19(8):619-23. doi: 10.1177/088307380401900810.

Abstract

An 18-month-old girl presented with a maculopapular rash 10 days after carbamazepine treatment. Initially, she was suspected of having a viral rash owing to associated fever. She deteriorated rapidly and was suspected of having anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome or Stevens-Johnson syndrome. She developed features compatible with toxic epidermal necrolysis rapidly over 24 to 36 hours. Carbamazepine was then stopped. She responded immediately to high-dose intravenous pulse methylprednisone treatment. We discuss the controversy in the management of anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or Stevens-Johnson syndrome with high-dose corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and antibiotics.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Carbamazepine / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Methylprednisolone / administration & dosage*
  • Pulse Therapy, Drug
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / etiology*
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Carbamazepine
  • Methylprednisolone