A case of valproic acid-induced hyperammonemic encephalopathy with normal liver function.
- Author:
Jong Hak CHOI
1
;
Jung Eun KIM
;
Kwang Sun LEE
;
Chae HEO
;
Taek Kyun NAM
;
Jeong Wook KIM
;
Seung Won PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea. ekg001@chol.com
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Valproic acid;
Hyperammonemia;
Adverse effect;
Seizure
- MeSH:
Ammonia;
Cerebral Hemorrhage;
Coma;
Consciousness;
Female;
Humans;
Hyperammonemia;
Liver;
Middle Aged;
Neurologic Manifestations;
Neurology;
Seizures;
Valproic Acid
- From:Korean Journal of Medicine
2008;75(6):680-684
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Valproic acid is an effective anticonvulsant used in neurology and psychiatry. Valproic acid-induced hyperammonemic encephalopathy is an unusual complication characterized by a decreasing level of consciousness, the development of progressive confusional states and, sometimes, a coexisting increase in the frequency of seizures after the onset of valproic acid treatment. It can lead to death, but can be reversed if a swift diagnosis is made. We report the case of a 58-year-old woman with an intracerebral hemorrhage and normal liver function who presented with valproic acid-induced hyperammonemic encephalopathy. After valproic acid treatment, she developed encephalopathy and became comatose, with seizures and a markedly elevated serum ammonia level. Her neurologic manifestations and hyperammonemia improved after discontinuing the valproic acid.
