Carbamazepine-induced interstitial pneumonitis associated with pan-hypogammaglobulinemia

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2012

Authors

Goncalves, D (Author) FMUP; Moura, R (Author) Other; Ferraz, C (Author) Other; Vitor, AB (Author) Other; Vaz, L (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Respiratory Medicine Case Reports

Vol. 5

Pages: 6-8

ISSN: 2213-0071

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

Scopus - 4 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-008-490

DOI: 10.1016/j.rmedc.2011.12.001

Abstract (EN): Carbamazepine remains a first-line drug for treatment of epilepsy in children. A wide variety of side effects have been attributed to its use, including a mild involvement of the immune system, usually a transient decline in IgA. Pulmonary complications, including interstitial pneumonitis, were mainly described in adults, and are considered rare side effects. In this report we describe the first pediatric patient who developed a severe interstitial pneumonitis and a pan-hypogammaglobulinemia 2 months after starting carbamazepine. A gradual resolution of symptoms and complete immune recovery was observed after the drug withdrawal, but 6 months later our patient still has a marked reduction in lung volumes and decreased exercise tolerance. We suggest that immunoglobulins should be carefully examined after carbamazepine initiation, particularly if the patient develops any sign of immunosuppression. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific