Meropenem-induced thrombocytopenia: a paediatric case

Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem widely used to treat both Gram-positive and negative bacterial infections, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing microbes. We describe the occurrence of thrombocytopenia and hypersensitivity in a boy receiving intravenous meropenem for intra-abdominal sepsis secondary to perforated appendicitis. The patient developed a pruritic maculopapular rash with occasional petechiae, associated with severe thrombocytopenia, after 7 days of meropenem administration. Investigations for other causes of thrombocytopenia, including possible line sepsis, were unfruitful, and the thrombocytopenia did not resolve until cessation of meropenem. Drug-induced reactions should be considered in children receiving meropenem who present with a rash and thrombocytopenia.