Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Associated with Use of Valproate |
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| Authors: | Jorge J Asconapé Kenneth R Manning Marcelo E Lancman |
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| Institution: | Departments of Neurology, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S.A.;Departments of Internal Medicine, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S.A. |
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| Abstract: | Summary: A 30-year-old man with long-standing localization-related epilepsy and mental retardation had seizures that were partially controlled with valproate (VPA) 500 mg four times daily. Routine examination showed severe thrombocytopenia with mild leukopenia and chronic lowgrade hemolytic anemia. Pertinent laboratory results included positive ANA, rheumatoid factor, anti-NIA, circulating immune complexes, and antihistone antibody. The patient was treated with high dosage prednisone with partial improvement, but continued to have exacerbations at lower dosages. Fourteen months later, VPA was discontinued, and rapid improvement ensued. Prednisone was subsequently discontinued, and the patient has now maintained normal platelet counts for 18 months. |
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| Keywords: | Anticonvulsants Valproate Drug toxicity-Systemic lupus erythematosus |
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