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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
12:23
Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Angioedema and maculopapular eruptions associated with carbamazepine administration
Alby Elias1, Subramoniam Madhusoodanan, David Pudukkadan
1Department of Psychiatry, Jubilee Mission Medical College, Trichur, Kerala, India.
CNS Spectrums
|April 28, 2006
Summary
Carbamazepine can cause skin rashes and rare angioedema, a condition involving swelling. Prompt drug withdrawal and antihistamines effectively treated a patient experiencing these adverse drug reactions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Cutaneous eruptions are common adverse drug reactions, affecting approximately 3% of individuals taking carbamazepine.
- Angioedema, a rare but serious side effect, involves dermal and subcutaneous vascular leakage, potentially mediated by immunoglobulin E or bradykinins.
Observation:
- A case report details a 27-year-old Indian woman who developed a maculopapular rash and angioedema after carbamazepine administration.
- Angioedema is noted to be more prevalent in females and individuals in their third decade of life.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms resolved successfully upon discontinuation of carbamazepine.
- Treatment with antihistamines was effective in managing the angioedema and rash.
Implications:
- Psychiatrists should be aware of carbamazepine-induced angioedema, given the drug's use in mood disorders.
- Early recognition and drug withdrawal are crucial for managing potentially life-threatening cutaneous adverse reactions to carbamazepine.
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