Diffuse subcortical white matter restriction: An uncommon finding on metronidazole toxicity

Mehri Salari1, Masoud Etemadifar2, Helia Ashourizadeh1

  • 1Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, 163038Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Insights

Metronidazole, a common antibiotic, can cause serious neurologic disturbances like encephalopathy. This case highlights reversible diffusion-restricted white matter lesions in a young patient, emphasizing careful monitoring during treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Metronidazole is a widely prescribed antibiotic for various infections.
  • Serious neurologic disturbances, including irreversible ones, have been linked to metronidazole use.
  • Encephalopathy is a potential adverse effect requiring clinical attention.

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