Gray Syndrome
Alternate Names : Chloramphenicol Toxicity in Newborns, Gray Baby Syndrome
Definition Chloramphenicol is an antibacterial medication used against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and is often used for meningitis. If given to a newborn, however, it can be toxic (poisonous) and fatal.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
"Gray syndrome" occurs if newborns (especially premature babies) are given chloramphenicol for a bacterial infection. Babies at that age do not have the necessary enzymes that allow the liver to be able to metabolize this drug appropriately.
The chloramphenicol accumulates in the baby's blood stream, causing hypotension (low blood pressure), cyanosis (blue coloring of lips, nail beds, and skin from lack of oxygen in the blood), and often death.
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