Linezolid-associated toxic optic neuropathy

Neurology. 2006 Feb 28;66(4):595-8. doi: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000201313.24970.b8.

Abstract

The oxazolidinone antimicrobial linezolid is effective against gram-positive bacteria. Although maximal recommended therapy is 28 days, treatment durations greater than this are common. Linezolid may cause reversible optic neuropathy and irreversible peripheral neuropathy after months of treatment. Three cases of linezolid-induced optic and peripheral neuropathy are described, and previously reported cases of linezolid-induced optic neuropathy are reviewed. The mechanism of neural toxicity may be impairment of mitochondrial protein synthesis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetamides / adverse effects*
  • Adult
  • Anti-Infective Agents / adverse effects*
  • Color Perception
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Linezolid
  • Methicillin Resistance
  • Optic Nerve Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Oxazolidinones / adverse effects*
  • Staphylococcal Infections / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Acetamides
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Oxazolidinones
  • Linezolid