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Gray baby syndrome is a rare and potentially fatal condition that was historically seen in newborn infants who were treated with high doses of the drug gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic. This condition is characterized by abnormal muscle flaccidity, diminished or absent tear production, and a distinctive grayish-blue discoloration of the skin, particularly in the extremities. It's a result of impaired kidney and liver function in newborns, which are not fully developed and therefore cannot process the drug as effectively as an adult's body would.

The syndrome has become less common since the recognition of the risks associated with high doses of gentamicin in infants, and the subsequent adjustment of treatment protocols. Nowadays, gentamicin is used in newborns only when absolutely necessary and with careful monitoring of dosage.

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Medical Definition of Gray baby syndrome. Gray baby syndrome: A syndrome due to toxicity of the antibiotic chloramphenicol in the newborn, especially the premature newborn, because of lack the necessary liver enzymes to metabolize this drug.read more >>