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  • Title: Valproic acid-induced hyperammonaemic coma and unrecognised portosystemic shunt.
    Author: Nzwalo H, Carrapatoso L, Ferreira F, Basilio C.
    Journal: Epileptic Disord; 2013 Jun; 15(2):207-10. PubMed ID: 23774155.
    Abstract:
    Hyperammonaemic encephalopathy is a rare and potentially fatal complication of valproic acid treatment. The clinical presentation of hyperammonaemic encephalopathy is wide and includes seizures and coma. We present a case of hyperammonaemic coma precipitated by sodium valproate use for symptomatic epilepsy in a patient with unrecognised portosystemic shunt, secondary to earlier alcoholism. The absence of any stigmata of chronic liver disease and laboratory markers of liver dysfunction delayed the recognition of this alcohol-related complication. The portal vein bypass led to a refractory, valproic acid-induced hyperammonaemic coma. The patient fully recovered after dialysis treatment.
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