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[Metronidazole-induced reversible cerebellar lesions and peripheral neuropathy]

S Toumi1, M Hammouda, A Essid

  • 1Service de médecine interne, CHU de Sahloul, route de Ceinture, Sousse, Tunisie. toumisarra@yahoo.fr

Medecine Et Maladies Infectieuses
|January 3, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Metronidazole can cause rare but serious neurologic toxicity, including cerebellar syndrome and peripheral neuropathy. Early recognition and cessation of this antibiotic are crucial for patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Metronidazole is a key antibiotic for amoebic and anaerobic infections.
  • Neurologic toxicity is an uncommon but severe adverse effect of metronidazole therapy.

Observation:

  • A 27-year-old male developed cerebellar syndrome and peripheral neuropathy.
  • Symptoms emerged after a cumulative metronidazole dose of 60g for a cerebral abscess.

Findings:

  • Cerebellar lesions on MRI were observed.
  • Lesions demonstrated reversibility upon discontinuation of metronidazole.
  • This pattern confirmed metronidazole-induced neurologic toxicity.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider metronidazole toxicity in patients presenting with neurologic symptoms.
  • Prompt cessation of metronidazole is recommended to manage drug-induced neurotoxicity.
  • Awareness of this adverse effect is vital for safe antibiotic prescribing.

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