Ceftaroline-induced eosinophilic pneumonia

Kunal R Desai1, Steven D Burdette, Hari M Polenakovik

  • 1Miami Valley Hospital, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio 45409, USA. desaikunalr@hotmail.com

Pharmacotherapy
|May 8, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Ceftaroline, an antibiotic for MRSA infections, can cause eosinophilic pneumonia. Discontinuing the drug and using steroids resolved symptoms, suggesting a drug-induced reaction.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Ceftaroline is a cephalosporin antibiotic effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
  • MRSA bacteremia can complicate postoperative spinal infections, requiring effective antibiotic therapy.
  • Adverse drug reactions, including pulmonary manifestations, can occur with antibiotic use.

Observation:

  • A patient treated with ceftaroline for MRSA bacteremia developed dyspnea and hypoxemia.
  • Chest imaging revealed diffuse bilateral infiltrates.
  • Peripheral blood eosinophilia and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with eosinophilic predominance were noted.

Findings:

  • The clinical presentation and laboratory findings were consistent with drug-induced eosinophilic pneumonia.
  • Ceftaroline discontinuation and corticosteroid initiation led to complete resolution of symptoms and radiographic findings.
  • This case highlights a potential adverse effect of ceftaroline therapy.

Implications:

  • Ceftaroline should be considered as a potential cause of drug-induced eosinophilic pneumonia in patients presenting with compatible symptoms.
  • Establishing diagnostic criteria for ceftaroline-induced eosinophilic pneumonia is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
  • Further investigation into the mechanisms of ceftaroline-induced pulmonary toxicity may inform future drug development and patient monitoring.

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