Question

A man with a skin infection due to methicillin-resistant S. aureus is treated with linezolid. Which adverse effect is associated with this antibiotic? (A) myalgia and arthralgia (B) nystagmus and vertigo (C) thrombocytopenia (D) discoloration of body fluids (E) flushing and hypotension

Short answer

The adverse effect associated with linezolid is thrombocytopenia (C).

Step-by-step solution

Understand the question context

We are dealing with the antibiotic linezolid and its possible adverse effects. The question focuses on identifying which adverse effect among the given options is commonly associated with linezolid.

Recall known adverse effects of linezolid

Linezolid is known for several side effects, but it is primarily associated with hematologic effects. One of the most significant is thrombocytopenia, which is a condition characterized by a low platelet count.

Match adverse effects with options given

Now we need to match the known adverse effects of linezolid with the options. Recall: (A) myalgia and arthralgia, (B) nystagmus and vertigo, (C) thrombocytopenia, (D) discoloration of body fluids, (E) flushing and hypotension. Given the association of linezolid with hematologic issues like thrombocytopenia, option (C) is correct.

Key concepts

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition where there's a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are small blood cells that help with clotting, which is vital for stopping bleeding. When someone has thrombocytopenia, they are at a higher risk of bruising and bleeding because their blood doesn't clot as it should.

In the context of antibiotics like linezolid, it's important to monitor blood counts. Linezolid is known to cause this condition as an adverse effect. This is particularly crucial for patients on long-term antibiotic therapy because prolonged exposure increases the risk of significant platelet reduction.

Patients undergoing treatment that might affect their platelet count should have regular blood tests. These tests help in monitoring the platelet levels and ensuring they remain at safe levels. Understanding thrombocytopenia and its connection with linezolid can help in managing and mitigating the adverse effects effectively.

Antibiotic Side Effects

Antibiotics are life-saving drugs used to treat infections by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria. However, like all medications, they can have side effects, which vary depending on the specific antibiotic.

Common side effects of antibiotics may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Allergic reactions
• Skin rash
• Photosensitivity

More serious side effects can occur, such as kidney damage, nerve problems, and hematologic effects like thrombocytopenia. Supervising the use of these medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider is crucial to minimize potential risks. Knowing these side effects can help in anticipating and responding to adverse reactions.

Hematologic Effects

Hematologic effects refer to how a drug affects the blood system. This includes all components of the blood, like red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Adverse hematologic effects can lead to various conditions such as anemia or leukopenia, but with linezolid, a specific concern is thrombocytopenia.

When medications disrupt normal blood cell production or function, patients may experience symptoms based on which type of blood cell is affected:

• Red blood cell reduction may cause fatigue and weakness.
• Low white blood cell counts can result in increased vulnerability to infections.
• A decrease in platelets, as seen with thrombocytopenia, can cause easier bruising and prolonged bleeding.

Monitoring hematologic effects is essential, especially for medications known to impact blood cells. Routine blood tests help track changes in blood cell levels and can guide therapeutic decisions, ensuring patient safety while benefiting from the drug's therapeutic effects.