CEFTAZIDIME-RELATED NONCONVULSIVE STATUS EPILEPTICUS

The third-generation cephalosporin, ceftazidime, is widely used for th e treatment of serious gram-negative infections. As is true of cephalo sporins in general, reported adverse effects have been few. We report a case of ceftazidime-induced status epilepticus in a patient with Pse udomonas aeruginosa meningitis and compare the clinical manifestations of this case with those of two previously described cases of ceftazid ime-related encephalopathy. This diagnosis should be entertained and a n electroencephalogram should be obtained in all patients with myoclon us and/or altered mental status while they are receiving ceftazidime t herapy.