The Clinical Study of Acute Poisoning in Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Poisoning represents one of the most common accidents encountered by young children. Recently, mortality due to poisoning has gradually decreased, but the incidence has not decreased. We performed this study to compare the following factors during 1980's and 1990's sex distribution, urban and rural distribution, causative substances. METHODS: A clinical study was performed on 90 cases of acute poisoning who were admitted in the pediatric department of Cho Sun University Hospital from Jan. 1980 to Aug. 1995. RESULTS: 1) The poisoning occured more frequently in males than in females, and the highest incidence was observed in the 1 to 5 year age group(50.0%). 2) Seasonal incidence was more prevalent in summer(from June to August). 3) The frequency of poisoning in the country was higher than in urban, but no significant difference between urban and the country in 1990s. 4) The causative substances were agricultural chemicals(36.7%), drugs(23.3%), household inseticide(21.1%). 5) In 1990s, poisoning due to houshold insecticide was decreased, whereas poisoning due to drug increased. 6) The cause of poisoning was mainly accidental(82.2%). 7) Accident was the leading cause of poisoning in children up to 10 years old, whereas suicidal attempts happened at the 10 to 15 year age group. 8) Death in the hospital was one case(1.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Urban incidence gradually increased and accidental poisoning due to medicine also increased. So, we conclude that prevention such as education and use of grip-tight cap or similar safety devices is important.