Spectrum, Complications and Outcome of Acute Pediatric Poisoning

Abstract

This prospective study was aimed to study pattern and outcome of childhood poisoning at a tertiary care centre in North India. All pediatric patients admitted with poisoning during 2012 and 2013 were included, and socio-demographic and clinical details of the patients recorded. Acute poisoning was reported in 104 children aged 9 months to 16 years during the study period. They constituted 2.6% of total pediatric admissions during the period. Males were 58 (56%) and females 46 (44%). The mean age was 5 years (9 months-16 years). Poisoning was suicidal in 11 (10.6%) and accidental in 93 (89.4%). Cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) compounds (n = 27, 26%) and kerosene (n = 23, 21%) were the most common agents responsible for poisoning. ChEI poisoning and snake envenomation were associated with more complications. Overall mortality was 5 (4.8%); 4 patients died of ChEI poisoning and one of snake bite. In ChEI poisoning patients, mortality was higher in patients who had suicidal poisoning, seizures or required mechanical ventilation.