Background: Drug-induced immune haemolytic anaemia (DIIHA) is caused by various drugs or their metabolites. Cephalosporins are associated with haemolytic anaemia but multi-organ failure is rarely described.
Case description: We report the case of a 57-year-old female who was diagnosed with neuroborreliosis and treated with ceftriaxone. The patient developed severe DIIHA. Massive intravascular haemolysis led to shock and acute renal failure, necessitating mechanical ventilation and dialysis. Treatment with ceftriaxone was discontinued and glucocorticoids were prescribed. The patient recovered slowly but fully.
Conclusion: Ceftriaxone-induced immune haemolytic anaemia is a rare but potentially fatal condition.