Probable metronidazole induced serum sickness-like reaction in a paediatric patient

What is known and objective: Metronidazole (MTZ) is a commonly prescribed antibiotic and is generally well tolerated. To our knowledge, there has been only one case report linking MTZ with serum sickness-like reaction (SSLR).

Case summary: We report a probable case of SSLR following the administration of MTZ in a paediatric patient.

What is new and conclusion: Serum sickness-like reaction may be associated with MTZ therapy, and this type of adverse drug reaction may be underreported in the literature. A prior case report and evaluation with the Naranjo algorithm indicating a 'probable' adverse drug reaction provide evidence to support this conclusion.