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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
11:36
Induction of Drug-Induced, Autoimmune Hepatitis in BALB/c Mice for the Study of Its Pathogenic Mechanisms
Published on: May 29, 2020
Fulminant hepatitis induced by lamotrigine.
Georges Ouellet1, Lydjie Tremblay, Denis Marleau
1Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Southern Medical Journal
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) can cause severe reactions like hepatitis. This case highlights that AHS with fulminant hepatitis from lamotrigine can occur unpredictably, regardless of drug dosage or other medications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) is a severe, idiosyncratic drug reaction.
- It typically presents with fever, rash, and systemic organ involvement.
- Hepatitis is a rare but serious manifestation of AHS.
Observation:
- A 40-year-old female with bipolar disorder developed AHS with fulminant hepatitis.
- The reaction occurred two weeks after initiating lamotrigine (25 mg, titrated to 50 mg).
- The patient had no prior organ issues or concurrent medications.
Findings:
- Lamotrigine hypersensitivity can manifest as severe, acute hepatitis.
- The idiosyncratic reaction occurred despite low dosage and slow titration.
- Cessation of lamotrigine led to favorable patient recovery.
Implications:
- AHS with hepatitis may be idiosyncratic and not solely dose-dependent.
- Clinicians should consider AHS in patients with unexplained hepatitis after starting anticonvulsants.
- Early recognition and drug withdrawal are crucial for managing severe AHS cases.
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