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Acute chemical meningitis after metrizamide-lumbar myelography
Abstract:
Severe acute meningitis developed after the use of metrizamide for lumbar myelography; cerebrospinal fluid findings included a white blood cell count of 2300, mostly polymorphonuclear cells, glucose level of 8 mg% and protein level of 253%. This apparent chemical meningitis could not be distinguished, either clinically or by cerebrospinal fluid examination, from acute bacterial meningitis. This case emphasizes that severe acute meningeal reactions, while very rare, can occur after the use of metrizamide for myelography. Such patients must be evaluated promptly to rule out bacterial meningitis and should be followed carefully for possible later sequelae.
Insights
Metrizamide myelography can rarely cause severe acute meningitis. This chemical meningitis mimics bacterial meningitis, requiring prompt evaluation and careful follow-up for potential complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Metrizamide is a contrast agent used in myelography.
- Adverse reactions to contrast agents can occur.
- Meningitis is a serious inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.