Which antibiotic class is associated with teeth discoloration and photosensitivity and should be avoided in pregnancy and children under 8?

Which antibiotic class is associated with teeth discoloration and photosensitivity and should be avoided in pregnancy and children under 8?

• A. Tetracyclines
• B. Macrolides
• C. Aminoglycosides
• D. Fluoroquinolones

Answer: (A)

Teeth discoloration with this antibiotic class happens because it interacts with calcium during tooth development. Tetracyclines chelate calcium and become incorporated into dentin and enamel as teeth form, especially in the developing teeth of fetuses and young children up to about age 8. This leads to permanent staining that can range from yellow to gray-brown. They also increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, causing easier sunburn or rash with exposure to UV light. Because they deposit in bones and teeth and can affect dental and skeletal development, they’re avoided during pregnancy and in children under 8. Other antibiotic classes don’t carry this same pattern of tooth staining and sun sensitivity in the same way, so they don’t fit the scenario described.

Teeth discoloration with this antibiotic class happens because it interacts with calcium during tooth development. Tetracyclines chelate calcium and become incorporated into dentin and enamel as teeth form, especially in the developing teeth of fetuses and young children up to about age 8. This leads to permanent staining that can range from yellow to gray-brown. They also increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, causing easier sunburn or rash with exposure to UV light. Because they deposit in bones and teeth and can affect dental and skeletal development, they’re avoided during pregnancy and in children under 8. Other antibiotic classes don’t carry this same pattern of tooth staining and sun sensitivity in the same way, so they don’t fit the scenario described.