Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026

A Two-Step Method for Percutaneous Transhepatic Choledochoscopic Lithotomy
Published on: September 13, 2022
[Ceftriaxione associated biliary lithiasis in newborns-report of two cases]
C M Rebello1, F de S Rossi, E J Troster
1Berçário Anexo à Maternidade-Instituto da Crinça Prof. Pedro de Alcântra-Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo.
Insights
Ceftriaxone use can cause biliary calculosis, a complication previously unreported in preterm neonates. Routine ultrasounds are recommended for neonates receiving ceftriaxone to detect this potential side effect.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
Context:
- Biliary calculosis, or gallstones, is a known complication of ceftriaxone therapy.
- Previous reports have documented this adverse effect in children and adults.
- This complication had not been previously described in preterm neonates.
Purpose:
- To report the first cases of ceftriaxone-associated biliary calculosis in preterm neonates.
- To highlight the potential risk of this complication in a vulnerable population.
- To advocate for enhanced monitoring in neonatal intensive care units.
Summary:
- Two cases of preterm neonates developed biliary calculosis during ceftriaxone treatment.
- Ceftriaxone, a commonly used antibiotic in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), was implicated.
- The findings suggest a need for increased vigilance regarding this adverse event.
Impact:
- This study expands the known spectrum of ceftriaxone-associated adverse events.
- It underscores the importance of routine ultrasonographic screening for neonates receiving ceftriaxone.
- Early detection can prevent potential complications and guide treatment adjustments in neonatal care.
Abstract:
The occurrence of biliary calculosis as a complication of the use of ceftriaxone was first described in an 18-year-old patient with chronic granulomatosis. Since then many reports have been published on this type of complication both in children and in adults, but until the present moment, this complication had never been reported in pre-term neonates.The authors describe two cases of biliary calculosis associated with the use of ceftriaxone in preterm-newborns, emphasizing that due to the frequent use of this type of antibiotic in neonatal I.C.U., routine ultrasonographic control exams should be performed to diagnose this possible complication in all neonates receiving ceftriaxone.
Related Concept Videos
Cholecystitis
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever