Cefepime-induced neurotoxicity in a pediatric patient on chronic hemodialysis: a case report

Monica Guzman-Limon1,2, Subha Amatya2,3, Joshua Samuels1,2

  • 1Division of Pediatric Nephrology & Hypertension Department of Pediatrics McGovern Medical School Houston Texas.

Clinical Case Reports
|December 12, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Impaired kidney function raises the risk of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity, a serious condition. Early symptom recognition is crucial to prevent severe neurological damage or death.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Neurology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Cefepime is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic.
  • Renal impairment is a known risk factor for adverse drug reactions.

Observation:

  • Patients with impaired renal function are at increased risk of cefepime-induced neurotoxicity.
  • Neurotoxic symptoms range from disorientation and myoclonus to coma and death.

Findings:

  • Impaired renal function is a significant risk factor for cefepime neurotoxicity.
  • The spectrum of neurotoxicity includes seizures, ataxia, and altered mental status.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should monitor renal function in patients receiving cefepime.
  • Early recognition and management of neurotoxicity symptoms are vital.
  • Prompt intervention can prevent permanent neurological deficits or mortality.

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