chloramphenicol gray baby syndrome
Pronunciation: klor-am-FEN-ih-kol gray BAY-bee SIN-drome
A potentially fatal condition in neonates and infants caused by chloramphenicol toxicity due to immature hepatic metabolism, characterized by cardiovascular collapse and distinctive gray skin discoloration.
Full Definition
Chloramphenicol gray baby syndrome is a severe adverse reaction that occurs when chloramphenicol accumulates to toxic levels in neonates and young infants due to their immature hepatic glucuronyl transferase enzyme system. The condition typically manifests within 2-9 days of treatment initiation and is characterized by progressive symptoms including abdominal distension, vomiting, irregular breathing, cardiovascular collapse, and the pathognomonic ashen-gray skin coloration. The syndrome has a mortality rate of approximately 40% and primarily affects premature infants and neonates under 1 month of age. While chloramphenicol is rarely used in modern pediatric oncology due to its bone marrow toxicity and this syndrome, awareness remains important for medical editors reviewing historical cases or international treatment protocols where safer alternatives may not be available.
Usage
Usage note: Historical significance in pediatric medicine; ensure contemporary relevance when including in modern treatment discussions.
In Context
- "The neonate developed chloramphenicol gray baby syndrome after receiving prophylactic antibiotic therapy for suspected sepsis." — Case report
- "Due to the risk of chloramphenicol gray baby syndrome, alternative broad-spectrum antibiotics are preferred in neonatal oncology patients." — Pediatric oncology guidelines