Phenytoin toxicity: an easily missed cause of cerebellar syndrome

Authors: Brostoff, J. M.; Birns, J.; McCrea, D.

Source: Journal of Clinical Pharmacy & Therapeutics, Volume 33, Number 2, April 2008 , pp. 211-214(4)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $48.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Summary

We present a series of cases of phenytoin toxicity where the diagnosis was initially missed. These patients all suffered unnecessary morbidity or investigations. The side-effects and unusual pharmacokinetics of phenytoin are discussed, as well as the array of potential drug interactions. We remind clinicians that phenytoin toxicity can easily mimic a cerebellar lesion or alcohol intoxication, and suggest that in accordance with National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines phenytoin should no longer be used as a first-line treatment for epilepsy.

Keywords: cerebellar; epilepsy; interactions; phenytoin; toxicity

Document Type: Case report

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2710.2008.00903.x

Publication date: 2008-04-01