Nonconvulsive status epilepticus during cephalosporin therapy.
Cephalosporins may induce nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), a potentially reversible condition. Despite the wide use of these antibiotics, there are only few reported cases, because this condition is probably underestimated. We report two new cases of NCSE occurring during treatment with cefepime and ceftazidime, and emphasize the utility of emergent electroencephalogram in patients with an acute altered state of consciousness while receiving treatment with cephalosporins, particularly when there is evidence of impaired renal function.
Primavera
Alberto
A
Department of Neurosciences, Ophthalmology and Genetics, University of Genova, Genova, Italy.
Cocito
Leonardo
L
Audenino
Daniela
D
D000368:Aged; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002511:Cephalosporins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004569:Electroencephalography / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D051437:Renal Insufficiency / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000150:complications; D013226:Status Epilepticus / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D002511:Cephalosporins