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Acute lindane poisoning in three children.
1California Poison Control System, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 25, 2000
Summary
Lindane, used for scabies and lice, can cause severe central nervous system (CNS) toxicity. Accidental oral ingestion in children led to seizures and respiratory issues, but all recovered.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
Background:
- Lindane is a commonly used pesticide for treating scabies and pediculosis.
- Despite safer alternatives, lindane's neurotoxicity, including seizures, is a known risk, particularly after dermal contact or ingestion.
- This highlights the importance of proper administration and awareness of potential adverse effects.
Observation:
- Three siblings experienced acute toxicity following inadvertent oral administration of lindane.
- Clinical presentations included a seizure in a 17-month-old, listlessness and decreased responsiveness in a 3-year-old, and nausea with hypoventilation requiring ventilation in a 4-year-old.
- These cases underscore the potential for severe central nervous system (CNS) effects from oral lindane exposure in children.
Findings:
- All three children exhibited symptoms consistent with lindane neurotoxicity after accidental oral ingestion.
- The severity of symptoms varied, ranging from a single seizure to respiratory compromise.
- Prompt medical attention and supportive care resulted in complete recovery without long-term sequelae.
Implications:
- Accidental oral lindane ingestion can lead to significant pediatric neurotoxicity, necessitating immediate medical intervention.
- Reinforces the need for extreme caution in lindane storage and administration, especially in households with children.
- Highlights the ongoing importance of considering lindane toxicity in the differential diagnosis of acute neurological symptoms in children, even when used therapeutically.