"Brown tumor" of hyperparathyroidism induced with anticonvulsant medication

A case history is presented of a 50-year-old epileptic receiving massive dose of phenobarbital and small doses of dilantin. Following a minor injury to her forearm a "brown tumor" of hyperparathyroidism and osteomalacia, both of which responded to vitamin D.A review of the literature is given; this is the second case reported which documents hyperparathyroidism under such circumstances, and the first to show radiographs of such changes. Radiologists should be aware of the possibility of these changes in patients on long-term anticonvulsants.