Cross-sensitivity and the anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome

The anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is a rare complication that occurs with the use of antiepileptic medications. Although phenytoin is the most common culprit, carbamazepine and phenobarbital are known to cause a similar reaction. A familial occurrence has been reported. We present a case of the anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome to emphasize the importance of recognizing the multiple clinical components of the syndrome and to raise awareness of the cross-sensitivity among anticonvulsants metabolized via arene oxide metabolites.