What is a potential outcome of using erythromycin in infants?

Using erythromycin in infants can lead to a specific condition known as pyloric stenosis. This is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the pylorus, the opening from the stomach into the small intestine, which can cause severe projectile vomiting and dehydration. The administration of erythromycin, especially in infants under certain conditions, has been associated with an increased risk of developing this gastric obstruction.

The mechanism behind this association may involve erythromycin's motility effects, which can influence gastric emptying and result in hypertrophy of the pyloric muscle. It has been observed that infants treated with erythromycin, particularly for respiratory infections, have had a statistically significant increased incidence of pyloric stenosis compared to those who have not received the medication.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in pediatrics, as it informs clinical practice and the management of infections in young infants, ensuring that the risks associated with treatments are adequately weighed against the benefits. Keeping an eye out for signs of pyloric stenosis in infants who have been prescribed erythromycin can be an essential part of post-treatment monitoring.