Recurrent shock and pulmonary edema due to acetazolamide medication after cataract surgery

Abstract

ObjectiveWe report a patient with recurrent shock and transient non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema within a period of two months – every time occurring after cataract surgery and a single oral dose of standard post-operative medication with acetazolamide. Data sourcesRecords of the intensive care unit, review of the literature. ConclusionsThis case demonstrates a rare but severe side effect of acetazolamide. We also present a review of the literature to raise the awareness of health care providers for this special form of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema.