Epidural adhesiolysis complicated by cefazolin-induced status epilepticus: two cases

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2008 Dec;110(10):1041-3. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2008.06.007. Epub 2008 Jul 23.

Abstract

Cefazolin is a strong epileptogenic agent. We describe two patients presenting with status epilepticus, apparently caused by intrathecal leakage of cefazolin via incidental dural puncture during spinal epidural adhesiolysis. Our cases suggest that the local use of antibiotics, particularly cefazolin, in the form of a mixture with contrast medium during a spinal procedure is not advisable, because of the possible incidental intrathecal leakage and the high convulsive potential of the antibiotics.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anesthesia, Epidural / adverse effects
  • Anesthesia, Epidural / methods*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Cefazolin / administration & dosage
  • Cefazolin / adverse effects*
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Epidural
  • Iohexol / administration & dosage
  • Spinal Puncture / adverse effects
  • Spinal Puncture / methods
  • Status Epilepticus / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Contrast Media
  • Iohexol
  • Cefazolin