Association Of Gall Bladder Sludge On Ultrasonography In Patients On Ceftriaxone Therapy

Abstract

Introduction

Ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, can cause gallbladder sludge due to high biliary excretion, leading to potential complications. This study investigates the association between ceftriaxone and gallbladder sludge formation detected by ultrasonography (USG).

Materials And Methods

Conducted in the Department of Radiology at the School of Medical Science and Research, Greater Noida, U.P., this hospital-based cross-sectional study spanned 20 months from August 2022 to March 2024. Fifty-seven patients on ceftriaxone therapy (1 gm BD) underwent baseline and daily USG from day 1 to day 5. Data analysis used SPSS-22, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results

Among 57 patients, the mean age was 39.05 years (SD: 14.61), with 63.2% male. By day 5, 29.8% (17 patients) developed gallbladder sludge. Incidence increased from 5.3% on day 3 to 29.8% on day 5. Older patients (>60 years) had a significantly higher incidence (80%) compared to younger patients.

Discussion

The study confirmed a significant association between ceftriaxone therapy and gallbladder sludge, particularly in older patients. Gender did not significantly affect sludge development. Clinicians should monitor patients on ceftriaxone, especially the elderly, for potential biliary complications.