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[Hemorrhagic syndrome during high-dose ampicillin treatment]
M Dugnani1, G Rizzo, P L Garavelli
1Strutture Complesse di Medicina Interna II, Azienda Ospedaliera Maggiore della Carità, Novara.
Recenti Progressi in Medicina
|September 13, 2001
Abstract:
In high doses, the beta-lactams--particularly cephalosporins--can cause bleeding from impairment of prothrombin formation. We report a case of hemorrhagic syndrome in a 63-year-old woman during therapy with high doses of ampicillin for Listeria monocytogenes meningitis.
Insights
High doses of beta-lactam antibiotics, like ampicillin, can cause bleeding by affecting prothrombin formation. This case highlights a hemorrhagic syndrome in a woman treated for Listeria meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Beta-lactam antibiotics, particularly cephalosporins, are known to potentially cause bleeding disorders.
- Impairment of prothrombin formation is a mechanism linked to antibiotic-induced coagulopathy.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old female patient developed a hemorrhagic syndrome.
- The patient was undergoing treatment with high-dose ampicillin for Listeria monocytogenes meningitis.
Findings:
- High-dose ampicillin therapy was associated with the observed hemorrhagic syndrome.
- The case suggests a link between ampicillin and impaired prothrombin formation leading to bleeding.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the risk of bleeding complications with high-dose beta-lactam therapy.
- Monitoring coagulation parameters may be warranted in patients receiving prolonged high-dose ampicillin treatment.
- This case underscores the importance of considering drug-induced coagulopathy in patients presenting with unexplained bleeding.