Valproate-induced panhypogammaglobulinemia

Neurol Sci. 2013 Jun;34(6):1003-4. doi: 10.1007/s10072-012-1153-3. Epub 2012 Jul 14.

Abstract

Valproate is one of the most used anti-epileptic drugs. Its common side effects are nausea, vomiting, weight gain, hair loss, tremor, changes in behavior, slowed thinking and impaired liver function. Blood dyscrasias are also relatively frequent and a few studies reported changes in serum immunoglobulin concentrations with valproate treatment. We describe a case of panhypogammaglobulinemia with transient pancytopenia due to valproate. Pancytopenia was recovered after discontinuation of valproate but panhypogammaglobulinemia has been persisting. Intravenous immunoglobulin is being administrated monthly. Previous reports describe that other sodium channel blockers, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, have been associated with hypogammaglobulinemia. This report also suggests that immunodeficiencies can be caused by valproate.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Agammaglobulinemia / chemically induced*
  • Agammaglobulinemia / complications
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Pancytopenia / chemically induced*
  • Pancytopenia / complications
  • Status Epilepticus / drug therapy
  • Valproic Acid / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Valproic Acid