Ertapenem-Induced Encephalopathy in a Patient With Normal Renal Function

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Drug-induced neurotoxicity is a rare but serious adverse effect.
• Ertapenem, a carbapenem antibiotic, has been associated with neurotoxicity.
• Encephalopathy is a diffuse brain disease affecting function and structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of ertapenem-induced encephalopathy in a patient with normal renal function.
• To highlight the potential for ertapenem to cause neurotoxicity independent of renal impairment.
• To assess the causality of ertapenem in the observed adverse event.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient who developed neurological symptoms after ertapenem administration.
• Clinical assessment of neurological symptoms including altered mental status, hallucinations, and dystonic movements.
• Utilized the Naranjo Scale to evaluate the probability of an adverse drug reaction.

Main Results:

• The patient developed encephalopathy with altered mental status, hallucinations, and dystonia.
• Symptoms significantly improved after discontinuation of ertapenem.
• The Naranjo Scale score was 7, indicating a probable adverse drug reaction.

Conclusions:

• Ertapenem can induce encephalopathy even in patients with preserved renal function.
• The temporal relationship and symptom resolution support ertapenem as the causative agent.
• This case adds to the understanding of ertapenem-associated neurotoxicity.