A Patient with TB under treatment complains of tinnitus and decreased hearing. Which drug is a causative factor:
**Core Concept**
The underlying principle being tested is the identification of ototoxic side effects associated with certain antitubercular medications. **Ototoxicity** refers to the drug's potential to cause damage to the ear, specifically the cochlea or auditory nerve, leading to hearing loss or tinnitus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the use of **streptomycin**, an aminoglycoside antibiotic commonly used in the treatment of tuberculosis. **Streptomycin** is known to cause ototoxicity, particularly vestibular toxicity, but it can also affect the auditory nerve, leading to symptoms like tinnitus and decreased hearing.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This choice is incorrect because, although it might be an antitubercular drug, it is not specifically known for ototoxicity.
**Option B:** Similarly, this option is incorrect as it does not typically cause the described side effects.
**Option C:** This choice is incorrect because, while it is used in TB treatment, it is not primarily associated with ototoxicity.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **aminoglycosides**, such as streptomycin, are well-documented to cause ototoxicity, making monitoring of hearing and balance crucial during their use.
**Correct Answer:** D. Streptomycin.