Cephalexin-induced haemolytic anaemia: A case report

J Clin Pharm Ther. 2017 Oct;42(5):615-617. doi: 10.1111/jcpt.12542. Epub 2017 May 5.

Abstract

What is known and objective: Drug-induced haemolytic anaemia (DIHA) is a rare condition that has been associated with a multitude of medications. Although a few cephalosporins have been commonly implicated in DIHA, cephalexin has been reported in only a few cases.

Case description: We report a case of a 44-year-old woman who developed haemolytic anaemia after 5 days of therapy with cephalexin.

What is new and conclusion: Although DIHA is rare, it should not be overlooked in the differential diagnosis. This case adds to the limited number of reports of cephalexin-induced haemolytic anaemia.

Keywords: adverse effect; antibiotics; drug-related.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anemia, Hemolytic / chemically induced*
  • Anemia, Hemolytic / diagnosis
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cephalexin / administration & dosage
  • Cephalexin / adverse effects*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Cephalexin