Abstract: Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics of delayed hypersensitivity reactions induced by cefotaxime sodium and sulbactam sodium and to devise diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies in order to provide evidence-based references for safe clinical medications. Methods One clinical case that presented with delayed hypersensitivity reactions following cefotaxime sodium and sulbactam sodium for injection administration was analyzed before management protocols were formulated based on literature and evidence. Results A patient with intermittent dry cough was diagnosed with a pulmonary space-occupying lesion comorbid with type 2 diabetes mellitus. After six days of combined therapy with cefotaxime sodium and sulbactam sodium, the patient developed pruritic erythematous rashes on bilateral lower extremities and across facial regions. The temporal correlation between drug administration and symptom onset, coupled with the characteristic manifestation pattern consistent with established adverse drug reaction profiles, strongly suggested delayed hypersensitivity reactions attributed to cefotaxime sodium and sulbactam sodium. Immediate discontinuation of the suspected agent combined with antihistamine therapy resulted in complete resolution of cutaneous manifestations and stabilization of vital signs. Conclusion Clinicians should remain vigilant against the risk of delayed hypersensitivity reactions associated with cefotaxime sodium and sulbactam sodium. These reactions exhibit distinct latency periods that may complicate causal attribution, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. Enhanced clinical monitoring, comprehensive causality assessment, prompt withdrawal of suspected agents and coupled with antihistamine therapy when necessary are crucial to optimizing patient outcomes.

Key words: Cefotaxime Sodium and Sulbactam Sodium, Delayed Hypersensitivity Reaction, Adverse Drug Reaction, Third-Generation Cephalosporins, Exanthema