Neopterin and C-reactive protein in the course of Stevens-Johnson syndrome: report of a case

Abstract

We describe a patient originally suffering from a depressive syndrome who developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome after 12 days of treatment with lamotrigine. The clinical symptoms and the inflammation parameters neopterin and C-reactive protein were documented. Neopterin values showed a good correlation with the course of the disease, which, to the best of our knowledge, has not been reported previously. C-reactive protein followed the neopterin curve with a delay of 4 days. Since neopterin is a widely available parameter it should be considered as a routine measurement in this type of hyperergic reaction. It might help to identify the beginning, the maximum and the regression of the disease in order to support therapeutic decisions.