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Kerosene poisoning in children: a report from northern Jordan
1Department of Paediatrics, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid. faisall152@yahoo.com
Insights
Kerosene ingestion in children is a significant risk, especially for those under 4 years old. Prompt medical care and preventive measures are crucial for recovery from this common household poisoning.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Kerosene ingestion is a prevalent cause of childhood poisoning.
- Understanding risk factors and clinical presentation is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate children with kerosene ingestion in northern Jordan.
- To identify common demographics, symptoms, storage practices, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study over 4 years.
- Inclusion of 120 children aged 11 months to 6 years.
- Data collection on symptoms, storage, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Majority of patients (90%) were under 4 years old.
- Common symptoms included cough (70.6%), tachypnea (59.6%), and fever (55.1%).
- Kerosene was often stored in soft drink bottles in kitchens and under stairs.
Conclusions:
- Kerosene ingestion poses a significant risk to young children.
- Symptomatic treatment leads to near-complete recovery.
- Health education and preventive strategies are essential.
Abstract:
A prospective study was conducted over 4 years to evaluate the children with kerosene ingestion in northern Jordan. One hundred and twenty children aged 11 months to 6 years (mean age 2.2) were studied. The majority of patients (90%) were below the age of 4. Most of the cases (42%) were seen during the summer season. The most common presenting symptoms were: cough (70.6%); tachypnoea (59.6%), and fever (55.1%). In 25 patients the parents had induced vomiting before arrival. The main sites of storage for kerosene were: under stairs (36.7%); the kitchen; (33.3%) and bathroom (11.7%). The main containers used were soft drink bottles, water jugs and water glasses. The patients were treated symptomatically, and all except one who was comatose on admission made a complete recovery. Health education and preventive measures are given.