A case of recurrent trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-induced aseptic meningitis and review of literature

A 66-year-old male patient presented with fever, headache, mental status changes, and nuchal rigidity with a lumbar puncture revealing neutropenic pleocytosis, and a presumptive diagnosis of bacterial meningitis was made. A careful history revealed that symptoms started within hours of starting oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Additional history uncovered a nearly identical episode 1 year earlier after 1 dose of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. All microbiologic diagnostic testing for meningitis was negative and all antimicrobials were discontinued. The patient had resolution of symptoms by 96 hours after last dose of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and went on to full recovery. Based on history, clinical course, and a score of 7 on the Naranjo scale, he was diagnosed with recurrent trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-induced aseptic meningitis (TSIAM). This case illustrates the profound importance of thorough medication history and medication reconciliation.