Anaphylaxis to Ciprofloxacin Requiring Emergent Surgical Cricothyrotomy

Although allergies to antibiotics are commonly stated, anaphylactic reactions are uncommonly reported. This is especially the case with reactions to fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Furthermore, airway emergencies are rare. We present a case of ciprofloxacin-induced acute airway obstruction and anaphylaxis, necessitating emergent surgical cricothyrotomy following respiratory distress. LEARNING POINTS: Anaphylactic reactions to fluoroquinolone antibiotics are extremely rare. There are currently no standardized diagnostic tests, making the diagnosis of anaphylaxis challenging and largely based on history alone. Treating clinicians should be aware of this rare, but potentially rapidly fatal adverse drug reaction.