# Lamotrigine-Induced Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (Lyell’s Syndrome): A Case Report and Literature Review

**Authors:** Mourad Nafaa, Filda Messal, Amal Miqdadi, Mostapha Noussair, Belyamani Lahcen

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.84929 · Cureus · 2025-05-27

## TL;DR

A 24-year-old woman developed severe skin reaction called Lyell’s syndrome after taking lamotrigine, highlighting the need for early detection and prompt treatment.

## Contribution

Adds a new case report to the literature on lamotrigine-induced toxic epidermal necrolysis and emphasizes early recognition and management.

## Key findings

- The patient showed rapid skin blistering and detachment after lamotrigine use.
- Discontinuation of lamotrigine and intensive care led to recovery.
- Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are critical for better outcomes.

## Abstract

Lyell's syndrome, also known as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), is a rare and severe adverse drug reaction characterized by widespread skin detachment, mucosal involvement, and high mortality. We present the case of a 24-year-old female who developed TEN after the recent initiation of lamotrigine for bipolar disorder. The patient exhibited rapidly progressing skin blistering and detachment affecting over 30% of the body surface area, along with mucosal lesions. Lamotrigine was immediately discontinued, and the patient received intensive supportive treatment in a specialized care unit, resulting in a favorable recovery.

This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of TEN and immediate withdrawal of the offending agent. It also highlights the need for heightened clinical awareness when prescribing lamotrigine, especially during the initial titration phase. We aim to contribute to the growing literature on lamotrigine-induced TEN and underline the value of timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary management in improving patient outcomes.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** lamotrigine (PubChem CID 3878)
- **Diseases:** bipolar disorder (MONDO:0004985), toxic epidermal necrolysis (MONDO:0019810), Lyell’s syndrome (MONDO:0019810)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** mucosal involvement (MESH:D052016), mucosal lesions (MESH:D009059), skin blistering (MESH:D001768), skin detachment (MESH:D012163), Lyell's Syndrome (MESH:D013262), bipolar disorder (MESH:D001714)
- **Chemicals:** Lamotrigine (MESH:D000077213)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

7 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12202715/full.md

## References

16 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12202715/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12202715