Red man syndrome is due to:
**Core Concept**
Red man syndrome is a cutaneous adverse reaction associated with the rapid administration of vancomycin, a glycopeptide antibiotic. This condition is characterized by flushing, erythema, and rash, typically affecting the upper body.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Vancomycin can cause red man syndrome due to the rapid infusion of the drug, leading to histamine release from mast cells. This histamine release causes vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and subsequent flushing and erythema. The condition is more common in patients receiving high doses of vancomycin, especially when administered over a short period.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because red man syndrome is not caused by the administration of penicillin, which is a different class of antibiotic.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the condition is not associated with the administration of aminoglycoside antibiotics, which have a different mechanism of action and side effect profile.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because red man syndrome is not caused by the administration of vancomycin through a central line, although this may be a factor in the severity of the reaction.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To prevent red man syndrome, vancomycin should be administered over a period of 60 minutes, and the rate of infusion should be adjusted according to the patient's tolerance.
**Correct Answer: C. Vancomycin administered too rapidly.**