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Aseptic meningitis from trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in an HIV-infected adolescent

B J Rudy1, R Rutstein

  • 1Division of General Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine 19140, USA.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|June 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis for Pneumocystis pneumonia in HIV-infected adolescents can cause aseptic meningitis. This rare but serious side effect requires clinical awareness and prompt diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Adolescents with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) present complex medical challenges.
  • Opportunistic infections and medication side effects are significant concerns in HIV management.

Observation:

  • A case of an HIV-infected adolescent experiencing aseptic meningitis is presented.
  • The meningitis was a direct consequence of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole therapy.

Findings:

  • Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, used for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia prophylaxis, can induce aseptic meningitis.
  • This adverse drug reaction highlights potential drug toxicities in immunocompromised youth.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must consider drug-induced aseptic meningitis in HIV-infected adolescents on trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
  • Awareness of this side effect is crucial for timely diagnosis and management to prevent severe outcomes.

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