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Metabolic abnormalities associated with tobramycin therapy

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Summary

Five patients who developed hypomagnesaemia, hypokalaemia, and hypocalcaemia in association with Tobramycin therapy are described. In all cases the proximate lesion of the disorder appeared to be a defect of magnesium conversion by the distal nephron. Onset of tetany led to detection of the syndrome in three patients (two of whom also had ventricular arrhythmias), but two were asymptomatic and detected only by biochemical screening. Spontaneous resolution occurred in all cases within four to twenty-one days (mean ten days) during which time intensive biochemical monitoring and support were required to prevent recurrence.

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Watson, A.J.S., Watson, M.M.R. & Keogh, J.A.B. Metabolic abnormalities associated with tobramycin therapy. I.J.M.S. 153, 96–99 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02942000

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02942000

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