Linezolid Therapy – A Cause of Bone Marrow Suppression in a Child

Aim: To highlight the importance of monitoring rare side effects of commonly used drugs. Linezolid induced bone marrow (BM) suppression is rare side effect of therapy and rarely reported in the pediatrics age group.

Case Description: A seven year old patient, with persistent discharge from skull suture site following surgery, developed bone marrow suppression 28 days following the start of treatment with Linezolid. BM suppression was fully reversible following discontinuation of Linezolid and all cell lines returned to near baseline 2 weeks after the discontinuation of the drug.

Discussion: The potent activity of Linezolid against Gram-positive bacteria, and its excellent bioavailability after oral dosing, have made it an important addition to the antibiotic armamentarium. Linezolid is relatively a safer drug and BM suppression is a rarely reported side effect, which is particularly observed when the drug is administered for more than 14 days.

Conclusion: Case highlights the importance of weekly monitoring of complete blood counts in patients who receive Linezolid for more than 14 days.