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Published on: November 27, 2019
Possible roxithromycin-induced fulminant hepatic failure in a child
K L Easton-Carter1, W Hardikar, A L Smith
1Department of Pharmacy, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
A new pediatric antibiotic, roxithromycin, caused severe liver injury in a 5-year-old boy, necessitating a liver transplant. This highlights the potential for serious hepatic complications in children treated with this drug.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic recently available in pediatric formulations in Australia.
- A healthy 5-year-old boy received roxithromycin for common childhood symptoms.
Observation:
- The child developed a generalized rash and vomiting post-treatment.
- Subsequent symptoms included jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools, indicating liver dysfunction.
Findings:
- Laboratory tests confirmed acute hepatitis.
- The patient's condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to liver transplantation.
Implications:
- Clinicians must recognize the risk of severe hepatic complications associated with pediatric roxithromycin use.
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring liver function in children receiving roxithromycin.
- Further research into the hepatotoxicity of roxithromycin in pediatric populations is warranted.
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Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
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