Metronidazole-induced pancreatitis. A case report and review of literature

Abstract

Context: Pancreatitis is a very rare adverse effect of metronidazole with only six cases of metronidazole-induced pancreatitis reported in the English literature so far.

Case report: We report a case of recurrent acute pancreatitis in a 46-year-old female associated with oral metronidazole therapy and review the literature with regards to metronidazole-induced pancreatitis. We are also highlighting the fact that the time lag between metronidazole exposure and development of pancreatitis is very variable.

Conclusion: High degree of suspicion is warranted on the part of physicians to diagnose metronidazole induced pancreatitis in patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms after metronidazole exposure. If metronidazole is suspected as the causative agent then it should be discontinued and rechallenge should be avoided.