Gray syndrome
Alternate Names : Chloramphenicol toxicity in newborns
Definition
Gray syndrome is a dangerous condition that occurs in newborns (especially premature babies) who are given the drug chloramphenicol.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Chloramphenicol is a drug used to fight bacterial infections, including meningitis. If given to a newborn, however, high doses of this drug can trigger a potentially deadly poisonous reaction. Babies do not have the enzymes (special proteins in the body) needed to break down this drug. The drug builds up in the baby's bloodstream and can lead to:
- Blue lips, nail beds, and skin from lack of oxygen in the blood (cyanosis)
- Death
- Low blood pressure
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