Ceftriaxone-Induced Hemolytic Anemia: A Rare and Fatal Reaction

Abstract

Ceftriaxone, a regularly used antibiotic for broad-spectrum coverage, is a rare cause of hemolytic anemia. Patients may present with truncal pain, nausea, vomiting, and an acute drop in hemoglobin within 48 hours of administration. Prompt recognition and initiation of treatment are essential. We describe a case of a 65year-old woman being treated for osteomyelitis who developed hemolytic anemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and multi-system organ failure after being de-escalated from cefepime to ceftriaxone.