Streptomycin ototoxicity in the unborn child

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pediatrics
• Ototoxicology

Background:

• Streptomycin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.
• Its use in pregnant patients is established but carries concerns regarding fetal ototoxicity.
• Potential effects of streptomycin on the developing auditory system require ongoing investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the ototoxic effects of streptomycin exposure in utero on the hearing of children.
• To assess the incidence of hearing loss in infants born to mothers treated with streptomycin during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 33 children whose mothers received streptomycin during pregnancy was identified.
• Hearing function in these children was assessed through audiological testing.
• Follow-up evaluations were conducted to monitor auditory health.

Main Results:

• Out of 33 children evaluated, only 2 exhibited a minor degree of hearing loss.
• The observed hearing impairment was potentially attributable to prenatal streptomycin exposure.
• The majority of children showed normal hearing function.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal exposure to streptomycin appears to be associated with a low risk of significant hearing loss in children.
• The findings suggest that streptomycin can be used cautiously in pregnant patients with appropriate medical indications.
• Further research may be warranted to confirm these findings in larger cohorts.