Anaphylaxis to cefazolin during labor secondary to prophylaxis for group B Streptococcus: a case report

Abstract

Background: Anaphylaxis is an uncommon event during pregnancy, but if it does arise, it can lead to serious fetal consequences even if there are no serious long-term maternal complications.

Case: A parturient developed anaphylaxis in the labor unit shortly after intravenous cefazolin chemoprophylaxis had begun for perinatal group B streptococcal disease. Prompt treatment for anaphylaxis commenced, involving the administration of epinephrine and glucocorticoids, and an emergency cesarean section spared the mother serious morbidity, with a favorable perinatal outcome for the fetus.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this case is the first reported one of anaphylaxis to cefazolin in pregnancy secondary to prophylaxis against for B Streptococcus. The case demonstrates that a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction can occur at any time during pregnancy and that all staff in a maternal unit should be familiar with the management of perinatal anaphylaxis.