[Status epilepticus and gatifloxacin].
BACKGROUND
The epileptogenic potential of quinolones differs from one product to the other. The rare epileptic seizures induced by gatifloxacin were seen with the intravenous route.


METHODS
We report two old ladies presenting with generalized status epilepticus after being treated orally with normal doses of gatifloxacin, with a good recovery. Past medical history of convulsion was the only factor found. Brain MR imaging was unremarkable. In one patient, EEG showed continuous bilateral paroxysmal discharges, predominantly frontal.


CONCLUSIONS
Caution is warranted when using quinolones in elderly patients, especially those suffering from epilepsy.
Koussa
S
S
Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de France, Université Saint-Joseph, Beyrouth, Liban. koussalam@hotmail.com
Hage Chahine
S
S
Zoghbi
A
A
Yazbeck
P
P
D000368:Aged; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D024841:Fluoroquinolones / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000077734:Gatifloxacin; D006801:Humans; D013226:Status Epilepticus / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D024841:Fluoroquinolones; D000077734:Gatifloxacin