Which antibiotic is a first-line treatment for severe cases of Campylobacter jejuni infection?

Erythromycin is recognized as a first-line treatment for severe cases of Campylobacter jejuni infection, particularly in pediatric patients. This macrolide antibiotic is effective against this specific bacterial pathogen, which is often associated with gastrointestinal infections leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Although many cases of Campylobacter infections are self-limiting and do not require antibiotic treatment, in more severe situations or when the patient is at risk of complications, erythromycin can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, especially in young children or those with underlying health conditions.

Other antibiotics such as metronidazole, vancomycin, and amoxicillin are not typically used as first-line treatments for Campylobacter jejuni infections. Metronidazole is primarily used for anaerobic infections and protozoal infections. Vancomycin is generally reserved for infections caused by gram-positive organisms, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Amoxicillin, while effective for certain bacterial infections, is not effective against Campylobacter, and its use in this context is limited. Therefore, erythromycin is the most appropriate choice for addressing severe cases of this specific infection.