Antibiotic treatment of choice for treating cholera in an adult is a single dose of –
**Core Concept**
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by Vibrio cholerae, a gram-negative bacterium. The mainstay of treatment is fluid replacement to prevent dehydration, and antibiotics are used to shorten the duration of diarrhea and reduce the risk of transmission.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The antibiotic treatment of choice for cholera is a single dose of doxycycline. Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against Vibrio cholerae. It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in the bacteria, ultimately leading to bacterial death. The use of a single dose of doxycycline is preferred because it is convenient, reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance, and does not disrupt the normal gut flora.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Azithromycin is another antibiotic that can be used to treat cholera, but it is not the preferred choice due to its higher cost and the risk of antibiotic resistance.
* **Option B:** Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is effective against Vibrio cholerae, but it is not the first-line treatment due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and potential side effects.
* **Option C:** Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is effective against anaerobic bacteria, but it is not effective against Vibrio cholerae and is not used to treat cholera.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In addition to antibiotic treatment, it's essential to remember that the primary treatment for cholera is fluid replacement to prevent dehydration. This can be achieved through oral rehydration therapy (ORT) or intravenous fluids.
**Correct Answer: D. Doxycycline**