Prolonged, refractory status epilepticus in a 22-month old girl treated with interferon for giant cell hepatitis is reported from the Depts of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX. CSF and MRI were normal. Complex partial seizures following recovery from status were associated with right hemisphere slowing and spikes on the EEG. Seizures were controlled with phenytoin and carbamazepine. Her hepatitis became stable, and anticonvulsants were discontinued when seizure free for > 1 year. [1]
COMMENT. Seizures and other neurologic adverse effects of interferon, including peripheral neuropathy, have been reported. Children receiving interferon should be monitored for possible EEG dysrhythmia and neurotoxicity.