Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome resulting in Hepatotoxicity and Epstein-Barr Virus reactivation following initiation of Levetiracetam

Authors

Zechariah Jung, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic MedicineFollow
Xavier Zonna, University at BuffaloFollow
Samuel J. Wlasowicz, Rochester Regional HealthFollow
Conor Banta, Geisinger Commonwealth School of MedicineFollow
Lawrence Canale, Rochester Regional HealthFollow
Joseph Bielecki, Rochester Regional HealthFollow

Author Credentials

Xavier Zonna D.O.

Samuel J Wlasowicz D.O

Lawrence Canale D.O.

Joseph Bielecki D.O.

Author ORCID Identifier

Xavier Zonna D.O. - https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9999-3714

Conor Banta - https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1277-8026

Abstract

A 28-year-old male with a past medical history of alcohol abuse had new-onset seizures suspected to be caused by alcohol use. Twelve days after starting levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis, he began to develop a pruritic rash, darkening of his urine, periods of jaundice, and hot flashes that correlated with the timing of his levetiracetam dosing. He was subsequently found to have lymphocyte-predominant leukocytosis, elevated aminotransferases, and alkaline phosphatase. Following discontinuation of his levetiracetam, he was found to have positive Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) serology suggestive of reactivation. This case demonstrates levetiracetam as a rare cause of drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS) along with reactivation of EBV.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Jung Z, Zonna X, Wlasowicz SJ, Banta C, Canale L, Bielecki J. Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome resulting in Hepatotoxicity and Epstein-Barr Virus reactivation following initiation of Levetiracetam. Advances in Clinical Medical Research and Healthcare Delivery. 2025; 5(2). doi: 10.53785/2769-2779.1291.