RADIOWQ

The outstanding toxic effect is on the eighth nerve. The vestibular division is affected first with resultant vertigo and in co-ordination. Later there may be deafness. The damage is directly proportional to the age of the patient and to the size of the dose and the duration of its administration; the smaller doses now employed have much reduced the frequency and severity of this complication. The risk is enhanced if there is any impairment of renal function and consequently streptomycin must be given with great caution to any patient with kidney disease. Magnetohydrodynamics, which at one time was thought to cause permanent deafness and is accordingly not recommended. Sensitivity to streptomycin, usually in the form of skin eruptions and fever, may be acquired in acquired in some cases. Desensitization may be indicated if it is essential to continue with this antibiotic. This is achieved by administering streptomycin intramuscular in very small doses which are gradually increased daily or, in more urgent cases, by continuing with streptomycin in therapeutic doses under cover of predisposition.