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Published on: September 20, 2024
Reversible encephalopathy induced by cefoperazone: a case report monitored with EEG
Stefano Pro1, F Randi, P Pulitano
1Department of Neurological Sciences, Neurophysiology Unit, Sapienza, University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00185 Rome, Italy. stefanopro1974@libero.it
Summary
Cefoperazone, an antibiotic, can cause reversible encephalopathy presenting with triphasic waves (TWs) on EEG. This condition, characterized by a confusional state, resolves after discontinuing the drug, highlighting the need for monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Neurophysiology
Background:
- Electroencephalography (EEG) is crucial for evaluating impaired consciousness.
- Certain cephalosporins are known causes of reversible encephalopathy with triphasic waves (TWs).
Observation:
- A patient presented with syncope and subsequently developed a confusional state during cefoperazone treatment for a urinary tract infection.
- EEG revealed characteristic triphasic waves (TWs) indicative of encephalopathy.
Findings:
- The patient's confusional state and EEG abnormalities (TWs) resolved after cefoperazone administration was discontinued.
- This suggests a direct causal link between cefoperazone and the observed toxic encephalopathy.
Implications:
- Cefoperazone should be considered a potential cause of toxic encephalopathy with EEG TWs, especially when a temporal relationship exists.
- EEG monitoring is valuable for neurological follow-up in patients experiencing altered consciousness during cefoperazone therapy.
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