Valproate-induced Periorbital Edema.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Valproate is an antiepileptic medication used for behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer's dementia.
• Managing behavioral disturbances in Alzheimer's disease often requires pharmacotherapy.

Observation:

• A 76-year-old male patient developed agitation and aggression.
• The patient was treated with haloperidol, then switched to valproate due to drug-induced parkinsonism.

Findings:

• The patient developed periorbital edema within 24 hours of starting valproate.
• Other causes of edema were ruled out, indicating an adverse drug reaction to valproate.

Implications:

• Periorbital edema is a rare but documented side effect of valproate treatment.
• Discontinuation of valproate led to rapid resolution of the edema, highlighting its causative role.