Anaphylactic reaction to tranexamic acid infusion in a six-year-old child: a case report

Int J Emerg Med. 2024 Sep 30;17(1):129. doi: 10.1186/s12245-024-00718-x.

Abstract

Background: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is commonly considered a safe drug to mitigate bleeding during and after various surgical settings among adults and children. In recent decades, anaphylaxis induced by TXA has been increasingly reported in adults. However, among pediatrics, there are fewer reported cases.

Case presentation: We report a case of a 6-year-old female who experienced anaphylaxis after receiving intravenous TXA following unilateral cleft lip and palate repair surgery. She exhibited clinical symptoms involving the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and skin. Following the administration of epinephrine, corticosteroid, and anti-histamine, the patient's symptoms were relieved. A few months after discharge, an intradermal test, yielded a positive result, confirming TXA as the culprit drug.

Conclusion: Our report emphasizes the importance of considering anaphylaxis as a potential adverse reaction to TXA in pediatric patients, showing the criticality of rapid diagnosis and appropriate management for a successful outcome.

Keywords: Allergy; Anaphylaxis; Case report; Critical care; Pediatrics; Tranexamic acid.