Myoclonic status epilepticus induced by cefepime overdose requiring haemodialysis
1Department of Intensive Care, Centre Hospitalier Victor Jousselin, Dreux, France.
Abstract:
We report a case of cefepime neurotoxicity characterised by myoclonic status epilepticus with coma, in a context of acute renal failure and requiring one discontinuous conventional haemodialysis. Cefepime is a fourth-generation broad-spectrum cephalosporin mainly used to treat hospital-acquired Gram-negative infections. Acute neurotoxicity is an increasingly reported adverse effect which occurs predominantly in patients with renal impairment. Renal replacement therapy has been proposed to treat this condition.
Insights
We describe a case of cefepime neurotoxicity, a serious adverse effect of this antibiotic, presenting as seizures and coma in a patient with kidney failure. Hemodialysis was used to manage this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Cefepime is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic.
- It is used for hospital-acquired Gram-negative infections.
- Neurotoxicity is a known adverse effect, especially in renal impairment.
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