title: Phenytoin-carbamazepine cross-sensitivity.
abstract: A case of phenytoin-carbamazepine cross-sensitivity is presented. Similar signs and symptoms occurred during administration of both drugs. A common metabolic intermediate is offered as a possible explanation of the mechanism. Clinicians should be careful when choosing alternatives in patients with hypersensitivity reactions to anticonvulsants. Valproic acid may be the safest choice in this setting.
authors.affiliation: Shands Hospital, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610.
authors.forename: S B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Reents
authors.forename: W E
authors.initials: WE
authors.lastname: Luginbuhl
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Davis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001772:Blood Cell Count; D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003429:Cross Reactions; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008111:Liver Function Tests; D010672:Phenytoin / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D002220:Carbamazepine; D010672:Phenytoin