tacrolimus and Hypovolemia

There is little precedent for a medication-induced spontaneous intracranial hypotension/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypovolemia (SIH). This case history of a woman with low CSF pressure, orthostatic headache, and radiographic findings consistent with SIH but without a detectable leak was notable for its association, both onset and resolution, with the use of the calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus (FK506). A literature review for potential causes of a tacrolimus-induced CSF hypotension suggests many potential mechanisms of action, including effects on blood brain barrier and dural compliance, and supports further vigilance for this condition in the medically complex setting of tacrolimus use.

Topics: Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak; Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea; Female; Graft Rejection; Headache; Humans; Hypovolemia; Immunosuppressive Agents; Intracranial Hypotension; Liver Transplantation; Middle Aged; Tacrolimus