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Severe Bronchoconstriction Caused by Administration of Rocuronium in a 3-Month-Old Infant: Case Report

Nicolle F Dyess1, Megan L Albertz2, Michael E Murphy3

  • 1Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 18, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Severe bronchoconstriction occurred in an infant after rocuronium administration. This case highlights a rare, dangerous reaction to neuromuscular blocking agents.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Critical Care

Background:

  • Neuromuscular blocking agents like rocuronium are essential for endotracheal intubation and surgical procedures.
  • Adverse reactions to these agents, though uncommon, can be severe.

Observation:

  • A 3-month-old infant developed severe and persistent bronchoconstriction.
  • This reaction occurred shortly after the administration of rocuronium.

Findings:

  • The infant's bronchoconstriction was a direct response to rocuronium.
  • This represents a rare adverse event associated with neuromuscular blockade.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should be aware of the potential for severe bronchoconstriction with rocuronium in infants.
  • Prompt recognition and management are crucial for this potentially life-threatening complication.

Keywords:
anaphylaxiscase reportneuromuscular blocking agentpediatrics

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