Cefepime-induced neurotoxicity

Abstract

We present a case of severe cefepime-induced neurotoxicity following acute kidney injury in a patient with a fracture-related infection. Despite stopping cefepime, the patient required intubation, ventilation, multiple antiepileptic drugs for seizure control, and haemodialysis. Contribution: Cefepime-induced neurotoxicity is a reversible cause of encephalopathy. Early recognition and cefepime withdrawal are crucial. As cefepime use in South Africa increases due to antimicrobial resistance, healthcare workers must be aware of this under-recognised, under-reported serious adverse drug reaction.

Keywords

• cefepime
• neurotoxicity
• cefepime-induced neurotoxicity
• adverse drug reaction
• encephalopathy