Ceftriaxone-associated nephrolithiasis and biliary pseudolithiasis in a child

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

• Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic frequently used in pediatric care.
• While generally safe, rare adverse events like biliary pseudolithiasis and nephrolithiasis have been documented.
• Understanding these potential complications is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.

Observation:

• This report details a pediatric case involving both ceftriaxone-induced biliary pseudolithiasis and nephrolithiasis.
• The patient presented with symptoms that could be mistaken for more severe clinical issues.
• The concurrent occurrence of both biliary and renal complications was noted.

Findings:

• Ceftriaxone therapy was associated with the development of both biliary pseudolithiasis and nephrolithiasis.
• These complications, though rare, highlight a potential adverse effect profile of ceftriaxone in children.
• Resolution of symptoms was observed upon discontinuation of ceftriaxone.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider ceftriaxone-induced biliary and renal stones in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients on this antibiotic.
• Prompt recognition and cessation of ceftriaxone can lead to spontaneous resolution of these complications.
• Further research may elucidate the mechanisms and risk factors for these rare adverse events in pediatric populations.