Human herpesvirus 6 infection associated with anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome and reactive haemophagocytic syndrome

Br J Dermatol. 1997 Oct;137(4):605-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1997.tb03795.x.

Abstract

Viral infections are thought to play a part in some cutaneous drug reactions. Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6), which is the agent of exanthema subitum (sixth disease), has never been implicated in a drug reaction. We report a patient with severe phenobarbital-induced anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome in whom a fulminant haemophagocytic syndrome was associated with HHV6 infection. We discuss the possible role of HHV6 in this reactive condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / virology*
  • Female
  • Herpesviridae Infections / complications*
  • Herpesvirus 6, Human*
  • Histiocytosis, Non-Langerhans-Cell / pathology
  • Histiocytosis, Non-Langerhans-Cell / virology*
  • Humans
  • Phenobarbital / adverse effects*
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Phenobarbital