[Neuro-ophthalmic adverse effects of metronidazole treatment in children: Two case studies].

OBJECTIVE

To report the onset of neuro-ophthalmological adverse effects in two children treated with metronidazole for amoebic dysentery.

METHODS

A 6-year-old child and his 8-year-old sister presented with sudden bilateral vision loss and diplopia associated with intense headache and vomiting. The medical history revealed amoebic dysentery 3 weeks before treated orally with metronidazole for 2 weeks. The ophthalmic examination was similar in the two children and revealed visual acuity of 3/10 bilaterally, binocular diplopia, normal oculomotor function, quiet anterior segment, altered afferent pupil light reflex associated with normal fundus examination, and most particularly absence of optic disc edema. The kinetic visual field showed restriction of isopters and blind spot enlargement and the Lancaster test showed discrete paresis of the lateral rectus muscle of the left eye. Orbitocranial computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were normal and visual evoked potential results were compatible with optic neuropathy. Clinical progression consisted in spontaneous resolution of general symptoms, total regression of diplopia, improvement of visual acuity, and normalization of visual evoked potentials after treatment interruption. Regression of symptomatology after interruption of the treatment allowed us to retain the toxic origin.

CONCLUSIONS

Metronidazole may have neuro-ophthalmological side effects. These complications are rare but can be severe and are reversible after treatment interruption. Regular follow-up is necessary in children receiving this treatment.