Drug-induced post-surgical haemorrhage resulting from trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole. A case report

A case of life-endangering post-operative haemorrhage due to thrombocytopenia resulting from administration of trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole is described. Withdrawal of the drug led to complete recovery. This side effect should be kept in mind, especially in patients scheduled for surgical intervention. As thrombocytopenia may develop insidiously and gradually, it is highly recommended to perform full blood tests immediately prior to surgery and repeat them in the post-operative period.