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Influenza Superinfection — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRespiratory InfectionInfluenza SuperinfectionSCE Infectious Diseases

Linezolid is selected for six weeks of susceptible VRE osteomyelitis in a patient with chronic kidney disease and a low-normal platelet count. Which haematological monitoring plan is the minimum SmPC standard?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Obtain a full blood count at least weekly, with closer monitoring in this high-risk patient

Explanation lettering: C = shown as B · B = shown as C

C is correct. Linezolid can cause anaemia, leucopenia, pancytopenia and thrombocytopenia; the SmPC calls for weekly full blood counts for everyone, with particularly close supervision during longer treatment and in people with renal impairment or baseline marrow risk. Monitoring only one lineage can miss toxicity, waiting four weeks is too late, and reticulocyte or INR testing does not replace a full count. Six weeks also warrants active review for optic and peripheral neuropathy, lactic acidosis and interacting serotonergic medicines.

Reference: Zyvox 600 mg tablets SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2931/smpc