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Aseptic meningitis associated with cephalosporins in an infant with trisomy 21

Wako Nakajima1, Akira Ishida, Maya Takahashi

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan. wakonakajima@hotmail.com

Journal of Child Neurology
|July 21, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This case study highlights drug-induced aseptic meningitis in an infant treated with cephalosporins. Discontinuing cefotaxime resolved the fever and improved cerebrospinal fluid findings, demonstrating a treatable condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection in infants, often treated with third-generation cephalosporins.
  • Infants with trisomy 21 may have unique health considerations.
  • Drug-induced aseptic meningitis is a rare but important adverse reaction to certain antibiotics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case of aseptic meningitis in an infant associated with cephalosporin use.
  • To emphasize the importance of recognizing and diagnosing drug-induced aseptic meningitis in pediatric patients.
  • To highlight the management and prevention of this rare adverse event.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a 1-year-old boy with trisomy 21.
  • Analysis of clinical presentation, antimicrobial treatment (cefotaxime, ceftriaxone), and cerebrospinal fluid findings.
  • Observation of clinical response after discontinuation of cefotaxime.

Main Results:

  • The infant developed persistent high fever and abnormal cerebrospinal fluid findings despite treatment for bacterial meningitis.
  • Discontinuation of cefotaxime led to fever resolution and improvement in cerebrospinal fluid.
  • This suggests a causal link between cefotaxime and aseptic meningitis.

Conclusions:

  • Drug-induced aseptic meningitis is a rare complication associated with cephalosporins in infants.
  • Prompt recognition and withdrawal of the causative agent are crucial for treatment.
  • Early diagnosis and management can prevent recurrence and improve patient outcomes.

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