Postpartum-Onset Seizures Associated With Ibuprofen-Induced Aseptic Meningitis: A Case Report
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October 20, 2026
Objective:
To describe a postpartum case of suspected ibuprofen-induced aseptic meningitis presenting with new-onset seizures.
Approach:
- Case: A 23-year-old woman developed headache, neck stiffness, intermittent fever, altered behavior, and seizures 11 days after cesarean delivery. She had taken ibuprofen 600 mg three times daily for 10 days for postoperative pain.
- Evaluation: Brain imaging and electroencephalography were unremarkable. CSF showed lymphocyte-predominant pleocytosis, markedly elevated protein, normal glucose, and sterile cultures. Extensive infectious and autoimmune investigations were negative.
- Management: Antibiotics were stopped on hospital day two after the negative evaluation. Ibuprofen was discontinued, and the patient was observed.
Key Findings:
- The patient’s mental status returned to baseline, and no further seizures occurred during hospitalization.
- She was discharged in stable condition; no readmissions were recorded during the following year.
- The authors reported a Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability score of 6, indicating a probable adverse drug reaction.
Interpretation:
The authors considered the timing of high-dose ibuprofen exposure, negative infectious investigations, and recovery after discontinuation supportive of ibuprofen-induced aseptic meningitis.
Limitations:
- This is a single case report and cannot establish causation.
Conclusion:
The authors emphasize medication-history review and antibiotic stewardship when evaluating postpartum patients with aseptic meningitis.
Sources:
Based on findings from:
Ibuprofen-Induced Aseptic Meningitis Presenting With New-Onset Seizures in the Postpartum Period: A Case Report
Annals Of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases, 2026.
https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/aimcc.2026.0666
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