Metronidazole-induced encephalopathy in a patient with pyogenic spondylitis: a case report.

With the possibility of needing to prescribe metronidazole in the orthopedic field for the treatment of various infections, orthopedic surgeons are likely to encounter cases of metronidazole-induced encephalopathy. Thus, they should be able to recognize the condition and its potential complications. With increased awareness, early diagnosis with magnetic resonance imaging and discontinuation of metronidazole may become feasible when such patients are referred. Our report presents a detailed account of such a case, which may help in the early diagnosis and treatment of patients with metronidazole-induced encephalopathy. Furthermore, we recommend that patients treated with metronidazole should undergo careful and constant surveillance after starting antibiotic therapy.