What effect does chloramphenicol have on blood cell production?

Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic known for its ability to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. However, one of its significant side effects is its potential to cause bone marrow suppression, which can lead to aplastic anemia. This condition is characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate amounts of blood cells, resulting in reduced numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The mechanism behind this effect is that chloramphenicol can suppress the proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells, leading to an inadequate supply of mature blood cells.

This side effect of aplastic anemia is particularly concerning because it can manifest as a life-threatening condition due to the decreased production of all types of blood cells, increasing the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the risk associated with chloramphenicol use in terms of its hematologic effects, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor blood counts in patients receiving this medication.