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Published on: September 21, 2015
[Seizure as a possible symptom of septic encephalopathy following transrectal prostate needle biopsy]
1Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Intensivtherapie, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena. Samir.Sakka@med.uni-jena.de
Abstract:
A 47-year-old male patient developed a seizure and was admitted to our institution by the emergency physician after tracheal intubation due to suspected primary intracerebral lesion. A primary neurological disorder could be excluded. Urosepsis with positive blood cultures for E. coli was diagnosed and the patient received appropriate antibiotic treatment. On the following day relatives mentioned an ambulatory prostate needle puncture on the day prior to admission. After stabilisation of organ function, the patient could be weaned from the ventilator and transferred to the urological ward a few days later. In conclusion, a seizure may be a possible symptom of septic encephalopathy which by definition is a diagnosis by exclusion. In general, transrectal prostate needle biopsy may be considered as a rare cause of sepsis and septic shock.
Insights
A seizure can indicate septic encephalopathy, a diagnosis of exclusion. Transrectal prostate needle biopsy is a rare cause of sepsis and septic shock.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Urology
Background:
- A 47-year-old male presented with a seizure, initially suspected to be due to an intracerebral lesion.
- Neurological causes were ruled out, and the patient was diagnosed with urosepsis caused by E. coli.
Observation:
- The patient underwent tracheal intubation and received antibiotic treatment for urosepsis.
- Family reported a transrectal prostate needle biopsy performed the day before admission.
Findings:
- The seizure was attributed to septic encephalopathy, a diagnosis of exclusion.
- Transrectal prostate needle biopsy is identified as a rare but potential cause of sepsis and septic shock.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering septic encephalopathy in patients with seizures of unknown origin.
- It underscores the potential infectious complications associated with prostate needle biopsies, necessitating careful patient evaluation and management.
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