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Journal of Education, Health and Sport

Adverse skin reactions to antiepileptic drugs - a review
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Adverse skin reactions to antiepileptic drugs - a review

Authors

  • Michalina Gruszczyńska Jan Biziel University Hospital no. 2 in Bydgoszcz https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3321-9626
  • Adam Jarzemski Jan Biziel Univeristy Hospital no. 2 in Bydgoszcz https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0217-3696
  • Agnieszka Kolossa Jan Biziel University Hospital no. 2 in Bydgoszcz https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4968-5721
  • Rafał Porzych Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3815-8793

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2023.21.01.002

Keywords

adverse skin reactions, antiepileptic drugs, dress, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis

Abstract

Introduction and objective: Treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is frequently used all around the world. Just like in the course of all the drugs administration, side effects may appear, including characteristic side effects presenting on the skin. The aim of the study was to analyse adverse skin reactions to antiepileptic drugs, focusing on their epidemiology, symptoms and treatment.

Methods: Databases including PubMed and Google Scholar were browsed using keywords.

Description of the state of knowledge: The majority of adverse skin reactions (ASRs) constitute mild rashes and urticaria, however in about 10% cases severe reactions may occur, which can be life-threatening. They include Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), Serum Sickness and Serum Sickness - like Reactions and Drug Induced Vasculitis. In the course of TEN mortality rates are highest, however all reactions can be dangerous and treatment should be applied immediately. In mild and moderate cases drug withdrawal is usually sufficient, however more severe cases need to be treated with immunosuppressive agents.

Summary: The awareness about possible adverse effects and their treatment is crucial as some can be life-threatening and immediate therapy increases the chance of recovery.

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Published

2023-04-18

How to Cite

1.
GRUSZCZYŃSKA, Michalina, JARZEMSKI, Adam, KOLOSSA, Agnieszka and PORZYCH, Rafał. Adverse skin reactions to antiepileptic drugs - a review. Journal of Education, Health and Sport. Online. 18 April 2023. Vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 18-25. [Accessed 28 June 2025]. DOI 10.12775/JEHS.2023.21.01.002.
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Vol. 21 No. 1 (2023)

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Copyright (c) 2023 Michalina Gruszczyńska, Adam Jarzemski, Agnieszka Kolossa, Rafał Porzych

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