Abstract
The patient was a 67-year-old female with subarachnoid hemorrhage. After the operation, oral food intake was difficult because of drowsiness. Broad-spectrum antibiotics for various infections were used in the postoperative period. The patient developed a bleeding tendency after the operation. On the 29th post-operative day hemoptysis and cyanosis occurred. Chest X-ray film showed a diffuse alveolar pattern in both lung fields. Bronchofiberscopic examination revealed blood in the trachea and bronchi. We diagnosed this case as pulmonary hemorrhage and cause was suspected to be hemorrhagic diathesis associated with broad-spectrum antibiotics administration. After treatment with a vitamin K preparation, pulmonary bleeding subsided and prothrombin time normalized. Although pulmonary hemorrhage caused by antibiotics is rare, it can take a serious course once it does occur. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully consider the use of antibiotics in such patients with bleeding tendencies.
