FREQUENCY OF VALPROIC ACID INDUCED THROMBOCYTOPENIA AND SERUM VALPROIC ACID LEVEL IN EPILEPTIC PATIENTS PRESENTING AT CIVIL HOSPITAL (LUMHS), HYDERABAD

Abstract

Background: Valproic acid is a widely prescribed broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug used in the management of various seizure disorders. Despite its efficacy, its use is associated with multiple adverse effects, including thrombocytopenia, which can increase the risk of bleeding complications. The identification and monitoring of valproic acid-induced thrombocytopenia are essential to ensuring safe and effective treatment. However, limited local data exist on the prevalence of this adverse effect, necessitating further investigation to establish appropriate monitoring and management strategies for affected patients.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of valproic acid-induced thrombocytopenia and assess serum valproic acid levels in epileptic patients presenting at Civil Hospital (LUMHS), Hyderabad.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, enrolling 167 pediatric patients diagnosed with epilepsy and receiving valproic acid therapy. Blood samples were obtained to measure platelet counts and serum valproic acid levels, with thrombocytopenia defined as a platelet count <150 × 10⁹/L. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26.0, with chi-square and post-stratification analysis applied to assess statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05).

Results: The mean age of the study population was 8.68 ± 3.49 years, with a mean epilepsy duration of 3.72 ± 2.24 years and a mean treatment duration of 4.41 ± 2.56 months. The average serum valproic acid level was 88.40 ± 20.56 µg/mL Among the 167 patients, 87 (52.1%) were male and 80 (47.9%) were female. Thrombocytopenia was observed in 23 (13.8%) patients, while 144 (86.2%) had normal platelet counts.

Conclusion: Valproic acid-induced thrombocytopenia remains a clinically significant concern in epileptic patients. Regular monitoring of platelet counts and serum drug levels is essential to minimize the risk of hematological complications. Proper dose adjustments and individualized treatment strategies can enhance therapeutic outcomes while reducing adverse effects.