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Salicylate poisoning in children: report of three cases

C O Musumba1, A O Pamba, P A Sasi

  • 1Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya.

East African Medical Journal
|August 6, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Chronic salicylate poisoning from over-the-counter Aspirin is a frequent cause of hospital admission for children with respiratory distress. Early diagnosis requires a thorough patient history to identify potential salicylate exposure and metabolic acidosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Toxicology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Salicylate poisoning, particularly chronic therapeutic overdose, is an underrecognized cause of metabolic acidosis in children.
  • Patients often present with non-specific symptoms like respiratory distress, complicating diagnosis.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) salicylate use, primarily Aspirin, is a common source of accidental poisoning.

Observation:

  • Two complex pediatric cases of chronic salicylate poisoning are presented.
  • Clinical manifestations included respiratory distress, a key sign of metabolic acidosis.
  • A comprehensive review of the literature on salicylate poisoning's pathogenesis, presentation, and management was conducted.

Findings:

  • A detailed patient history, including drug usage, is crucial for diagnosing metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients.
  • Salicylate poisoning can mimic other conditions, delaying appropriate treatment.
  • Early recognition and intervention are vital for favorable outcomes.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for chronic salicylate poisoning in pediatric patients with unexplained metabolic acidosis.
  • Healthcare providers and communities require education on the risks of OTC salicylate use in children.
  • Preventive strategies are essential, especially in resource-limited settings with fewer management options.

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