Frequency of Valproate Induced Thrombocytopenia in Epileptic Children

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of valproate induced thrombocytopenia in children with
epilepsy.
Methods: This observational case series descriptive study was conducted at Services Hospital
Lahore during December 2016 to June 2017. A total of 160 children were enrolled in this study
after taking ethical approval letter from the hospital. An informed consent was also taken from the
parents/guardian of the children for this study. After fulfilling the inclusion criteria the children were
recorded by entering his/her demographic profile. Demographic include, name, age, gender,
weight, height. Later on patients were subscribed for valporate for 30 days and asked to come for
follow-up visit after 30 days. Blood sample was drawn after 30 day of treatment with valporate and
sent to the laboratory. Children were assessed for the presence thrombocytopenia.
Results: In this study, out of 160 cases, 71.25%(n=114) were between 5-9 years of age whereas
28.75%(n=46) were between 10-12 years of age, mean+SD was calculated as 8.53+1.80 years,
53.75%(n=86) were male and 46.25%(n=74) were females. Mean platelet count (per mcL) was
calculated as 161028.125+15127.99 per mcL. Frequency of valproate induced
thrombocytopenia in children with epilepsy was recorded as 24.37%(n=39).
Conclusions: We estimated a considerable frequency of valproate induced thrombocytopenia
in children with epilepsy, which necessitates that the platelet count should be monitored for
children receiving valproic acid especially on higher doses. Children using higher doses of
valproate may have a higher risk of developing thrombocytopenia