When Antibiotics Appear to Fail
Author Information
Author(s): Gilles R.G. Monif, M.D.
Primary Institution: Creighton University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The side-chains attached to core moiety in certain antibiotics may contribute to the mechanism of drug fever.
Conclusion
The patient experienced drug fever due to antibiotic treatment, which resolved after discontinuation of the antibiotics.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient had a significant midline and extensive right lateral wall vaginal tear during delivery.
- Laboratory evaluation revealed a white count of 18,700 and positive urinalysis for infection.
- Despite antibiotic treatment, the patient continued to spike fevers.
- The diagnosis of drug fever was inferred by the absence of infectious morbidity after stopping antibiotics.
Takeaway
Sometimes, antibiotics can cause fevers instead of helping. If you stop taking them, the fever usually goes away quickly.
Methodology
The case study involved monitoring a patient with postpartum pyelonephritis and evaluating her response to antibiotic treatment.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
The patient was a 17-year-old unmarried primi-gravida.
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