Accidental poisoning in children: frequency and outcome of the cases at a military hospital

ABSTRACT

To determine the frequency of accidental poisoning by various agents and their associated outcome in children. Descriptive Study. The study was carried out in emergency department at PNS Shifa hospital Karachi, from January 2007 to December 2008. A total of 200 patients reported with accidental poisoning during the study period. Detailed history and examination regarding the nature of poisoning was taken. Relevant investigations for purpose of diagnosis were carried out. Mortality and morbidity was noted on predesigned proforma. Total 200 patients were admitted with accidental poisoning during the study period. 155[77.5%] of patients belonged to less than 5 year age group. Most frequently ingested poison was kerosene oil [51%], followed by insecticides [17.5%], Oral route was involved in majority of cases 194[97%]. Complications were observed in 6% of cases, Pneumonia was the most frequently occurring complication in 8 [4%] cases of kerosene oil ingestion, followed by seizures in 2 [1%] cases of insecticide ingestion. No mortality was reported in this study. Acute childhood poisoning is a significant public health problem affecting mainly toddlers. Main substances responsible for acute poisoning are Kerosene oil, insecticides, bleach and drugs