Lactic Acidosis Induced by Prolonged Linezolid Therapy: A Case Report

Abstract

Cellulitis can show up in many ways, including changes in the color and temperature of the skin, as well as swelling, but these finding are not always reliable in older patients. Because aging and chronic illnesses weaken the immune response, many elderly individuals do not develop fever or an elevated white blood cell count, which can make the condition harder to identify. Linezolid is often chosen for difficult-to-treat Gram-positive infections, but when it is used for extended periods, it may interfere with cellular energy production and eventually cause lactic acidosis.