Linezolid-induced Optic Neuropathy

Purpose To report a case of optic neuropathy associated with prolonged use of a new antibiotic, linezolid. Design Interventional case report. Methods Optic and peripheral neuropathy occurred in a 27-year-old woman who was undergoing prolonged linezolid therapy for osteomyelitis. The use of corticosteroid exacerbated visual loss. Discontinuation of the linezolid therapy resulted in marked improvement of optic neuropathy. Results Linezolid-induced optic neuropathy was diagnosed in this case, because prolonged linezolid therapy was performed at a higher dose than usual and because the patient recovered after linezolid therapy was discontinued. Conclusions With prolonged linezolid therapy, ophthalmologists should be aware that bilateral optic neuropathy can occur and that corticosteroids are not indicated for this neuropathy.