Korean Journal of Spine, 2012 · DOI: · Published: March 1, 2012
Metronidazole is a common antimicrobial drug that can cause neurological side effects like peripheral neuropathy and encephalopathy. This case reports a woman with a spinal cord injury who developed these side effects after being treated with metronidazole. Diagnosing these side effects was difficult because her paraplegia masked typical symptoms. However, MRI and electrophysiological studies revealed abnormalities characteristic of metronidazole-induced encephalopathy and peripheral polyneuropathy. The case highlights the importance of considering drug side effects in patients with spinal cord injuries, even when typical symptoms are absent due to their pre-existing condition. Early diagnosis is crucial for better recovery.
Clinicians should be aware of the potential for metronidazole to cause encephalopathy and peripheral polyneuropathy, especially in patients with pre-existing neurological conditions.
In patients with spinal cord injuries, clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for drug-induced neurological complications, even if typical symptoms are masked by the underlying condition. Utilize MRI and electrophysiological studies for diagnosis.
Prompt discontinuation of metronidazole upon suspicion of neurotoxicity can lead to improved outcomes and recovery.