Abstract

LALA, Vikash G. et al. Metronidazole-induced encephalopathy. S. Afr. J. radiol. (Online) [online]. 2021, vol.25, n.1, pp.1-5. ISSN 2078-6778.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajr.v25i1.2016.

Metronidazole is a widely used antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent for a number of conditions. Whilst its more common gastrointestinal side effects are well known, neurotoxicity remains under-recognised. Both central and peripheral neurological side effects have been described. This report describes a case of radiologically confirmed metronidazole-induced cerebellar ataxia in a cirrhotic patient with a review of the literature. Awareness of this side effect is essential for prompt recognition as early drug withdrawal leads to resolution in the majority of cases.

Keywords : metronidazole; metronidazole-induced cerebellar ataxia; metronidazole-induced neurotoxicity; metronidazole adverse events; metronidazole-induced encephalopathy; dentate nucleus lesions; splenium lesions; corpus callosum lesions.

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