Recurrent aseptic meningitis following non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – a reminder. Issue 890 (1st December 1999)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seaton, R A; France, A J
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 75:Issue 890(1999)
• Page Start: 771
• Page End: 772
• Publication Date: 1999-12-01
• Subjects: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- meningitis -- adverse drug reaction; Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/pgmj.75.890.771
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract : Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are rarely associated with side-effects affecting the central nervous system. A case of NSAID-induced recurrent aseptic meningitis is presented. Seven episodes of aseptic meningitis were documented in the patient's life-time (up to the age of 30). General practitioners' records available for the latest four episodes showed that a NSAID (naproxen, piroxicam or diclofenac) was prescribed in the month prior to admission on each occasion. The patient was symptom free for a 3-year period during which no NSAID was prescribed. Clinicians should always elicit a careful drug history (including over-the-counter medications) in patients with aseptic meningitis and be aware of this unusual side-effect of NSAIDs.