Phenytoin-induced toxic cholestatic hepatitis in a patient with skin lesions: case report

South Med J. 2003 Feb;96(2):201-3. doi: 10.1097/01.SMJ.0000051269.23361.4A.

Abstract

Phenytoin is a highly effective and widely prescribed anticonvulsant agent, but it can be associated with dose-related side effects and hypersensitivity reactions. We present a case of phenytoin-induced cholestatic hepatotoxicity in a 47-year-old woman who had exfoliative dermatitis, an increase in liver enzymes with a cholestatic pattern, and eosinophilia after 25 days of phenytoin therapy. The diagnostic workup showed no other possible causes, and the results of a percutaneous liver biopsy were consistent with drug-induced toxic hepatitis. Within 3 weeks after discontinuing phenytoin therapy, her liver function tests returned to normal values.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / pathology
  • Cholestasis / chemically induced*
  • Cholestasis / pathology
  • Dermatitis, Exfoliative / chemically induced*
  • Dermatitis, Exfoliative / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Phenytoin / adverse effects*
  • Phenytoin / therapeutic use
  • Seizures / prevention & control

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Phenytoin