Erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome in patients receiving cranial irradiation and phenytoin
In 15 months we encountered eight patients with intracranial tumors who developed erythema multiforme (EM) or erythema multiforme bullosa (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). All occurred shortly after use of phenytoin (DPH) and brain radiation therapy (WBRT). The clinical picture differed from the classic form of EM in that the erythema began on the scalp and spread to the extremities, progressing in three cases to extensive bullous formation. There were no cases of EM among patients who received either DPH or radiotherapy alone. The combination of DPH, WBRT, and tapering of steroids seems to predispose to EM. The pathogenesis of the disorder is probably immunologic. In the absence of seizures, anticonvulsants should not be given routinely to patients with brain tumors. When anticonvulsants are necessary in patients scheduled for WBRT, DPH may not be the drug of choice.
- Research Organization:
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5430778
- Journal Information:
- Neurology; (United States), Vol. 38:2
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Contrast-enhancing computed tomography ring in glioblastoma multiforme after intraoperative endocurietherapy
Contrast-enhancing computed tomography ring in glioblastoma multiforme after intraoperative endocurietherapy
Related Subjects
BRAIN
NEOPLASMS
RADIOTHERAPY
SIDE EFFECTS
ANTICONVULSANTS
BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
ERYTHEMA
PATIENTS
RADIATION INJURIES
SKIN DISEASES
SYNERGISM
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BODY
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DEPRESSANTS
DISEASES
DRUGS
INJURIES
MEDICINE
NERVOUS SYSTEM
NUCLEAR MEDICINE
ORGANS
RADIATION EFFECTS
RADIOLOGY
SYMPTOMS
THERAPY
560151* - Radiation Effects on Animals- Man