Carbamazepine-induced acute liver failure as part of the DRESS syndrome.
Carbamazepine is a widely used drug. It is commonly associated with hepatic abnormalities, ranging from an asymptomatic rise in liver function tests to acute liver failure. The most severe reaction occurs as part of a generalised hypersensitivity reaction, also known as drug reaction, eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). We describe a case of a young adult who presented with non-specific symptoms, which progressed to fulminant hepatic failure, displaying the hallmarks of DRESS. We highlight the need for awareness of such an association.
Syn
W-K
WK
Liver and Hepatobiliary Unit,Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
Naisbitt
D J
DJ
Holt
A P
AP
Pirmohamed
M
M
Mutimer
D J
DJ
D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D056487:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury, Chronic; D003875:Drug Eruptions; D004802:Eosinophilia / Q000139:chemically induced; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D005076:Exanthema / Q000139:chemically induced; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017114:Liver Failure, Acute / Q000139:chemically induced*; D013577:Syndrome
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D002220:Carbamazepine