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Neurotoxicity induced by beta-lactam antibiotics: from bench to bedside

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European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Central nervous system toxicity following administration of beta-lactam antibiotics, of which penicillin is the prototype, is a potential cause of morbidity and mortality. In recent years, important advances have been made in the pathogenesis of antibiotic-related neurotoxicity. This review focuses on the experimental and clinical aspects of neurotoxicity caused by beta-lactam antibiotics. The purpose is to provide an update on the pathogenesis, mechanism, and clinical manifestations of the neurotoxicity, along with an overview of the relationship between antibiotic structure and convulsive action. In particular, some of the prevailing ideas about pathogenesis are highlighted, including theories of the mechanism of pathogencity. A better understanding of antibiotic-related neurotoxicity, as derived from animal models and human clinical experience, would be of value in facilitating more efficient and safer use of antimicrobial compounds.

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Acknowledgments

This study is supported in part by a Chinese University of Hong Kong research grant, account 6901031.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China

    K. M. Chow, A. C. Hui & C. C. Szeto

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  1. K. M. Chow
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  2. A. C. Hui
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  3. C. C. Szeto
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Correspondence to K. M. Chow.

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Chow, K.M., Hui, A.C. & Szeto, C.C. Neurotoxicity induced by beta-lactam antibiotics: from bench to bedside. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 24, 649–653 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10096-005-0021-y

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