Ceftriaxone-induced symptomatic cholelithiasis in a child: case report and literature review

Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin. Due to its wide range of activity and acceptable safety profile, it is frequently prescribed to paediatric patients. However, there are several documented cases of reports of uncommon adverse events, such as cholecystitis, linked to the use of ceftriaxone. This study discusses the case of an 8-year-old female patient who developed cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder, after being treated with ceftriaxone. The patient presented with right upper quadrant pain, associated with nausea. Imaging studies showed the presence of stones and shadowing sludge, leading to acute inflammation of the gallbladder. Prompt cessation of ceftriaxone and supportive treatment led to the resolution of cholecystitis and the complete disappearance of the sludge and stones. The study highlights that early identification and withdrawal of the antibiotic can lead to successful therapy and the avoidance of unnecessary surgical procedures.