Cerebellar ataxia following prolonged use of metronidazole: case report and literature review

Int J Infect Dis. 2008 Nov;12(6):e111-4. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2008.03.006. Epub 2008 Jun 3.

Abstract

Cerebellar toxicity is a rare adverse event in patients treated with metronidazole. Here, we present a patient who developed cerebellar toxicity accompanied by objective abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging, and review the literature on this unusual reaction. Discontinuation of metronidazole almost always results in resolution of symptoms and structural lesions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / chemically induced*
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebellum / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebellum / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Metronidazole / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Metronidazole