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A case of suspected antibiotic-associated encephalopathy in a patient undergoing long-term peritoneal dialysis
Yibin Guo1, Xiaojiao Shao1, Liyuan Zhang1
1Department of Nephrology, Lianyungang No 1 People's Hospital, Jiangsu, China.
Abstract:
A man undergoing long-term peritoneal dialysis who had no history of mental illness suffered psychosis and auditory hallucination 2 days after clindamycin was initiated at a single dose of 0.6 g per day for pulmonary infection. His mental symptoms disappeared after clindamycin was discontinued and peritoneal dialysis was strengthened. The patient's body temperature was mildly elevated the day before he was admitted to the hospital, and no abnormalities were observed on head and chest computed tomography imaging at admission, except for a slow rhythm on electroencephalogram. Many factors were involved in this case; antibiotic-related encephalopathy caused by clindamycin may be one factor. Physicians should carefully consider the use of antibiotics, especially in patients with end-stage renal disease.
Insights
Clindamycin treatment for pulmonary infection in a patient on peritoneal dialysis led to psychosis and auditory hallucinations. Symptoms resolved after discontinuing the antibiotic, suggesting a potential link to antibiotic-related encephalopathy.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a crucial treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
- Antibiotic use in ESRD patients requires careful consideration due to altered drug metabolism and excretion.
Observation:
- A patient on long-term PD developed acute psychosis and auditory hallucinations.
- These neurological symptoms emerged two days after initiating clindamycin for a pulmonary infection.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of clindamycin and enhanced PD led to the complete resolution of psychotic symptoms.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) showed a slow rhythm, while head and chest CT scans were unremarkable.
Implications:
- Clindamycin may induce antibiotic-related encephalopathy, particularly in patients with impaired renal function.
- Clinicians must exercise caution when prescribing antibiotics to ESRD patients, monitoring for potential neurological side effects.
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