Vestibulo-toxicity of tobramycin

Area of Science:

• Ototoxicity
• Nephrology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic commonly used for bacterial infections.
• Aminoglycosides are known for potential nephrotoxic and ototoxic side effects.
• Peripheral vestibular function is crucial for balance and spatial orientation.

Observation:

• Two patients with normal renal function experienced permanent bilateral loss of peripheral vestibular function.
• This loss occurred during tobramycin therapy.

Findings:

• Tobramycin can cause irreversible vestibulotoxicity, leading to complete loss of peripheral vestibular function.
• The incidence of these side effects may be low, but the consequences are severe.

Implications:

• Patients undergoing tobramycin therapy should be closely monitored for signs of vestibular dysfunction.
• Audiological and vestibular assessments are recommended to detect early signs of ototoxicity.
• Awareness of tobramycin's vestibulotoxic potential is crucial for clinicians managing patients on this antibiotic.