Linezolid contributed to Clostridium difficile colitis with fatal outcome.

Abstract

Linezolid, the first of a new class of antibacterial drugs, the oxazolidinones, has inhibitory activity against a broad range of gram-positive aerobic cocci and also against certain anaerobes. Although diarrhea is one of the most frequently encountered adverse effects of linezolid, Clostridium difficile-related complications are very uncommon. One case of fatal C. difficile colitis in a patient with spondylodiscitis, who had received a long-term course of linezolid therapy, is presented. Colitis was able to be exclusively assigned to linezolid. Factors contributing to the colitis are discussed.

• Authors: L T Zabel, S Worm
• Journal: Infection (Infection) Vol. 33 Issue 3 Pg. 155-7 (Jun 2005) ISSN: 0300-8126 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 15940418 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Acetamides
• Anti-Infective Agents
• Oxazolidinones
• Linezolid

Topics

• Acetamides (adverse effects)
• Anti-Infective Agents (adverse effects)
• Enterocolitis, Pseudomembranous (chemically induced)
• Fatal Outcome
• Humans
• Linezolid
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Oxazolidinones (adverse effects)