Cefuroxime-induced Cardiopulmonary Arrest

Abstract Cefuroxime is a commonly utilized antibiotic in the management of infectious cases and is generally well tolerated, with no evidence of serious adverse events. While cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions with cefuroxime are relatively common, life-threatening anaphylactic reactions, though documented, remain rare. We report A 61 year old male with hypertension was admitted for a scheduled cystoscopy and received a single prophylactic dose of cefuroxime. Within seconds, he developed a severe anaphylactic reaction leading to respiratory distress, loss of consciousness, and cardiopulmonary arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced resuscitation measures, including intubation and epinephrine administration, resulted in return of spontaneous circulation after 30 min. He was transferred to the intensive care unit with poor neurological status and widespread dermatologic signs of allergic reaction. While cefuroxime-induced anaphylaxis is rare, physicians should take into consideration the potential of an anaphylactic reaction due to cefuroxime and be ready to manage it appropriately.