Hepatotoxicity and hematologic complications induced by fusidic acid in a patient with hepatitis B cirrhosis: A case report

RATIONALE: Fusidic acid (FA) is an active agent against gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus, it is generally well tolerated and the major adverse effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and headache. However, some rare side effects such as granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia have also been reported. Here we report a case of FA-induced hepatotoxicity and hematologic toxicity. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 54-year-old woman with hepatitis B cirrhosis was referred to us because of fever, Staphylococcus aureus was identified in the twice blood culture, and intravenous FA was given (0.5 g, q8 hours). Twelve days after FA therapy, she developed nausea and jaundice. Meanwhile, complete blood cell count showed neutropenia (white blood cell count of 1360/μL, neutrophil of 619/μL) and aggravated thrombocytopenia (platelet count of 18,000/μL). Adverse drug reaction was suspected, and FA was stopped immediately, after 1 day of discontinuation of FA, nose bleeding occurred and the platelet count declined further and reached the lowest value of 4000/μL. DIAGNOSES: Hepatotoxicity and hematologic complications induced by FA were diagnosed. INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES: The FA was stopped immediately, and concentrated platelet transfusion was used. Five days after withdrawal of FA, jaundice resolved and the hematologic index returned to the level before the medication. LESSONS: Hematologic adverse effect accompanying with hepatotoxicity may be induced by FA. Though the risk is rather low, it should not be overlooked.