A Rare Cause of Coagulopathy in the Emergency Department: Cefoperazone Use

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Internal Medicine
• Hematology

Background:

• Cefoperazone (CPZ) is a vital antibiotic for treating moderate to severe infections, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• CPZ use is associated with coagulopathy, a significant side effect that can lead to severe health complications and mortality.
• The mechanisms involve interference with vitamin K metabolism and platelet aggregation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy presenting as hematuria.
• To raise awareness among clinicians about this potentially life-threatening adverse effect of CPZ.
• To emphasize the importance of monitoring coagulation status in patients receiving CPZ.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of patient's medical history and antibiotic administration.
• Clinical observation of presenting symptoms (hematuria) and laboratory findings related to coagulation.

Main Results:

• A patient developed hematuria attributed to coagulopathy after receiving cefoperazone (CPZ) in combination with sulbactam.
• The coagulopathy was a direct consequence of CPZ administration.
• This highlights the clinical significance of CPZ-induced bleeding risks.

Conclusions:

• Cefoperazone (CPZ) can induce coagulopathy, manifesting as bleeding complications like hematuria.
• Clinicians should be vigilant for coagulopathy in patients treated with CPZ, especially those with risk factors.
• Prompt recognition and management are crucial to mitigate morbidity and mortality associated with CPZ-induced coagulopathy.