What question did this study set out to answer?

This report aims to highlight the occurrence of severe anaphylaxis following cefoperazone–sulbactam administration despite prior tolerance.

January 25, 2026

Cefoperazone–Sulbactam-induced anaphylaxis

Key Points

This report aims to highlight the occurrence of severe anaphylaxis following cefoperazone–sulbactam administration despite prior tolerance.
Clinical observation of an 18-year-old male with anaphylaxis
Administration of cefoperazone–sulbactam through intravenous route
Monitoring of symptoms including breathlessness and hypotension
Intensive care management with adrenaline and corticosteroids
The patient developed acute symptoms within 15 minutes of drug administration
He experienced hypotension and generalized urticaria, leading to respiratory failure
Urgent intubation and mechanical ventilation were required
The patient gradually recovered and was discharged successfully

Abstract

Abstract Anaphylaxis to cephalosporins is relatively uncommon but can rapidly become life-threatening. This is a case of an 18-year-old male who developed severe anaphylaxis following intravenous administration of cefoperazone–sulbactam despite having tolerated several prior exposures without adverse effects. Within 15 min of injecting the drug, he developed acute breathlessness, hypotension, and generalized urticaria, progressing to respiratory failure that required urgent intubation and mechanical ventilation. Intensive care management with adrenaline, corticosteroids, and supportive therapy led to gradual recovery, and the patient was successfully discharged. This case underscores the unpredictable nature of drug hypersensitivity, where prior tolerance does not guarantee future safety. It also highlights the critical importance of preparedness for anaphylaxis even with commonly used antibiotics.

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