[Drug hypersensitivity syndrome to valproic acid].

BACKGROUND: Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening idiosyncratic drug reaction. It is usually due to aromatic anti-convulsants. We report the second case induced by sodium valproate, a non-aromatic anticonvulsant.

CASE REPORT: A 28-year-old woman was treated with sodium valproate for 5 weeks. She suddenly developed a generalized maculo-papulous eruption with fever, node enlargement, hypereosinophilia and altered liver function.

DISCUSSION: Drug-induced hypersensitivity is rarely induced by valproic acid. The time-course and positive patch tests using the diluted drug establish the diagnosis.