ABSTRACT
Carnitine deficiency is a rare metabolic condition that can result in fasting hypoglycemia. Carnitine deficiency could be primary or secondary to other conditions. Among secondary causes, antiepileptics such as valproic acid have been incriminated. Valproic acid is known to deplete carnitine stores and inhibit the process of ß-oxidation. Herein we report the case of a 44-year-old female with epilepsy that presented with breakthrough seizures associated with hypoglycemia despite being on appropriate antiepileptic therapy. The patient was later found to have carnitine deficiency. Discontinuation of valproic acid and supplementation with l-carnitine resolved the patient's hypoglycemia and breakthrough seizures. With this case report, we hope to encourage clinicians to include carnitine deficiency in the differential diagnosis of unexplained hypoglycemia.
