Carbamazepine-induced thrombocytopenia, rash, and hepatic dysfunction

Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant agent that has been found clinically useful in the treatment of refractory seizure disorders. Its mechanism of action is not well understood. The drug also has been associated with several serious side-effects. These include bone marrow suppression, liver and renal dysfunction, water intoxication, and ocular lens opacities. A 33-year-old white female developed elevated liver enzymes, a rash, and thrombocytopenia following the short-term use of carbamazepine for temporal lobe seizures. All of these findings are consistent with literature reports. Other etiologic factors also are discussed. This case is presented to illustrate the importance of monitoring blood counts and liver function tests when carbamazepine is part of a particular treatment regimen. Clinicians must be aware that a variety of hematological disorders can occur with this drug. Liver dysfunction is usually first noted, with an elevation of liver function tests. When thrombocytopenia is noted, prompt withdrawal of the drug is required. The platelet count should return to normal within a few days.