Linezolid-induced optic neuropathy.
OBJECTIVE
To report a case of optic neuropathy associated with prolonged use of a new antibiotic, linezolid.


METHODS
Interventional case report.


METHODS
Optic and peripheral neuropathy occurred in a 27-year-old woman who was undergoing prolonged linezolid therapy for osteomyelitis. The use of corticosteroid exacerbated visual loss. Discontinuation of the linezolid therapy resulted in marked improvement of optic neuropathy.


RESULTS
Linezolid-induced optic neuropathy was diagnosed in this case, because prolonged linezolid therapy was performed at a higher dose than usual and because the patient recovered after linezolid therapy was discontinued.


CONCLUSIONS
With prolonged linezolid therapy, ophthalmologists should be aware that bilateral optic neuropathy can occur and that corticosteroids are not indicated for this neuropathy.
Saijo
Tomohiro
T
Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo University School of Medicine, and Kawakita General Hospital, 1-7-3 Asagayakita, Suginami, Tokyo 166-8658, Japan. paul@d4.dion.ne.jp
Hayashi
Keiko
K
Yamada
Hideyuki
H
Wakakura
Masato
M
D000081:Acetamides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D000069349:Linezolid; D009901:Optic Nerve Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D023303:Oxazolidinones / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000081:Acetamides; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D023303:Oxazolidinones; D000069349:Linezolid