Jaundice Associated with Cephalosporin Therapy

Two cases of cephalosporin-induced hepatotoxicity with associated jaundice are presented. Both patients developed jaundice and liver enzyme abnormalities soon after injectable cephalosporin therapy was started. Other possible causes were ruled out, including TPN and allopurinol hepatoxicity, and additional medical illnesses associated with hepatoxicity. Both patients recovered fully from the episode of jaundice. Review of the literature suggests a possible hypersensitivity reaction similar to liver toxicity of the penicillin antibiotics.