Ceftriaxone-induced haemolytic anaemia in a child with no immune deficiency or haematological disease

Abstract

A 5-year-old girl, with no underlying immune deficiency or haematologic disease, was treated with ceftriaxone for a urinary tract infection. After receiving ceftriaxone intramuscularly, massive haemolytic anaemia developed. Laboratory studies showed the presence of an antibody against ceftriaxone, and the findings reflected immune complex type haemolysis. High-dose corticosteroids appeared to be effective therapeutically.