Erythema Multiforme Associated With Phenytoin and Cranial RadiationTherapy (EMPACT) Syndrome Associated With Cranial Radiotherapy and Levetiracetam: A Case Report

Cranial radiotherapy (RT) is an irradiated way to treat patients with brain malignancies. Seizure is the most common symptom. Due to the frequency of seizure risk, cranial RT is usually received concomitant with previously initiated antiepileptic drugs (AED). This combination can lead to erythema multiforme (EM) like serious skin reactions starting from the irradiated port site and spreading to whole cutaneous surfaces and mucosal membranes. This clinical entity is named after as an acronym of components which are Erythema Multiforme associated with Phenytoin And Cranial RadiationTherapy as EMPACT syndrome. Most cases of EMPACT syndrome are reported with phenytoin in the literature, but there are no reported cases with levetiracetam to the best of our knowledge in the literature. Here, we report a 62-year-old male with glioblastoma, presented with severe conjunctivitis, extensive bleeding erosions in his oral mucosa and erythematous macular eruptions on the right temporoparietal port region of the scalp, and EM-like generalized lesions involved neck, chest, back, and arms following the end of his cranial RT. He was diagnosed with EMPACT syndrome, related to using levetiracetam concomitant with cranial RT. Early diagnosis is crucial for the complete response of treatment. Physicians should be alert to possible skin and mucosal reactions of patients under levetiracetam treatment, especially co-existing use of cranial RT.