Neurological complications during treatment of liver abscess: think of metronidazole toxicity

Trop Doct. 2020 Apr;50(2):165-166. doi: 10.1177/0049475520903651. Epub 2020 Feb 4.

Abstract

Related neurological adverse effects to metronidazole are rarely encountered in clinical practice despite its wide use as an antibacterial or antiparasitic agent. The neurotoxicity is not dose-dependent and is fully reversible with discontinuation of the drug. We describe a young man who was receiving metronidazole for an amoebic liver abscess and developed encephalopathy and seizures. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed characteristic bilateral symmetrical cerebellar dentate hyperintensities.

Keywords: Metronidazole; neurotoxicity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antiprotozoal Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Liver Abscess, Amebic / drug therapy*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Metronidazole / adverse effects*
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / diagnostic imaging
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / etiology*
  • Seizures / diagnostic imaging
  • Seizures / etiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antiprotozoal Agents
  • Metronidazole