Reversible encephalopathy induced by cefoperazone: a case report monitored with EEG

Neurol Sci. 2011 Jun;32(3):465-7. doi: 10.1007/s10072-010-0425-z. Epub 2010 Oct 7.

Abstract

In patients with an impaired state of consciousness, EEG is fundamental, a correct neurological work-up. Cephalosporins have been identified as a case of triphasic waves' (TW) reversible encephalopathy. We report a case of an acute reversible encephalopathy with TWs during treatment with cefoperazone. We report the occurrence and regression of a confusional state with TWs encephalopathy at EEG after the administration of cefoperazone for urinary tract infection in a patient admitted for syncope. In conclusion, cefoperazone should be considered as a cause of toxic encephalopathy with EEG TWs, when there is a temporal relationship with its administration; EEG monitoring is useful in the neurological follow-up.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Brain Waves / physiology
  • Cefoperazone / adverse effects*
  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Monitoring, Physiologic / methods
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / diagnosis*
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / etiology*
  • Urinary Tract Infections / complications
  • Urinary Tract Infections / drug therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Cefoperazone