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Linezolid induced psychosis and hallucination: Case report and literature review
Hamza Maqsood1, Salman Sajjad1, Saba Aslam1
1Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan, Pakistan.
Introduction:
Various classes of antibiotics have been linked to causing a wide range of neuropsychiatric symptoms. These manifestations range from psychosis and delirium to encephalitis and intracranial hypertension. The prevalence of psychosis adverse drug reactions (ADRs) for individual antibiotics ranges from 0.3 to 3.8%. We report a rare case of linezolid-induced psychosis and hallucination.
Case Presentation:
We report a 52-year-old Asian gentleman who presented with an altered level of consciousness and hallucinations. He was treated for third-degree burns of 31% of the body for two months. Based on clinical and laboratory investigations, linezolid-induced psychosis and hallucination were diagnosed. His Naranjo probability score was +8. The drug was stopped, and the patient recovered successfully.
Conclusion:
On rare occasions, toxic blood levels of linezolid can lead to neuropsychiatric manifestations. Both linezolid-induced psychosis and hallucinations are manageable by suspension of the drug. Therefore, physicians should monitor the blood levels of this antibiotic to keep their patients safe from such serious adverse effects.
Insights
This case report highlights a rare instance of linezolid-induced psychosis and hallucinations. Promptly stopping the antibiotic led to the patient's successful recovery, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Antibiotics can cause neuropsychiatric adverse drug reactions (ADRs), including psychosis and delirium.
- The prevalence of psychosis ADRs for antibiotics varies between 0.3% and 3.8%.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old male patient developed altered consciousness and hallucinations during linezolid treatment for severe burns.
- Clinical and laboratory findings supported a diagnosis of linezolid-induced psychosis and hallucination, with a Naranjo score of +8.
Findings:
- Linezolid, an antibiotic, can rarely lead to toxic blood levels causing neuropsychiatric symptoms.
- Psychosis and hallucinations induced by linezolid are reversible upon drug discontinuation.
Implications:
- Physicians should monitor linezolid blood levels to prevent serious neuropsychiatric adverse effects.
- Early recognition and cessation of linezolid are crucial for managing psychosis and hallucinations in patients.
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