Valproic Acid-Induced Pleuro-Pericardial Effusion

Valproic acid, commonly used for neurological conditions, can cause eosinophilic pleuro-pericardial effusion as a rare side effect, likely due to a hypersensitivity reaction. This case report discusses a 66-year-old male patient who developed this condition after 10 years of valproic acid use for epilepsy. Symptoms included dyspnea, dry cough, and atypical chest pain. After ruling out other causes, valproic acid toxicity was identified as the primary cause. The patient fully recovered after medication adjustments. The risk of this effusion increases with high dosage and prolonged exposure to valproic acid.