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Child abuse: acute water intoxication in a hyperactive child

Chih-Yang Lin1, Yong-Kwei Tsau

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.

Acta Paediatrica Taiwanica = Taiwan Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi
|November 24, 2005
PubMed

Insights

A child presented with coma and seizure due to acute water intoxication. This case highlights the potential link between compulsive water drinking, child abuse, and hyperactivity disorder.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Toxicology
  • Child Psychiatry

Background:

  • Acute water intoxication is a rare but serious condition, particularly in children.
  • It can lead to severe neurological complications, including coma and seizures.
  • Physical child abuse may present with non-specific signs, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

  • A 4-year-8-month-old boy presented with coma, seizure, and rapid weight gain.
  • Physical examination revealed signs of child abuse.
  • Laboratory tests showed severe hyponatremia with normal renal function; MRI revealed diffuse brain swelling.

Findings:

  • The clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with acute water intoxication.
  • History revealed chronic polydipsia with acute compulsive water drinking.
  • The patient was diagnosed with hyperactivity disorder, suggesting a potential link.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering water intoxication in children with unexplained neurological symptoms and signs of abuse.
  • It highlights a possible correlation between compulsive water drinking, child abuse, and hyperactivity disorder.
  • Early diagnosis and psychiatric intervention are essential for managing such complex cases.

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