Clove oil ingestion in an infant
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B W Lane1, M J Ellenhorn, T V Hulbert
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Martin Luther King, Jr., General Hospital, Drew/UCLA School of Medicine.
Insights
Accidental clove oil ingestion in an infant caused central nervous system depression and acidosis. Prompt supportive care and gastric lavage led to full recovery, highlighting effective treatment strategies for this rare poisoning.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Clove oil, derived from Syzygium aromaticum, contains eugenol, a compound with potential toxic effects.
- Accidental ingestion in infants is uncommon but can lead to severe adverse events.
- Understanding the toxicological profile of clove oil is crucial for pediatric emergency care.
Observation:
- A 7-month-old infant experienced central nervous system depression and significant anion-gap metabolic acidosis following accidental oral clove oil administration.
- The child also presented with urinary abnormalities, suggesting potential renal involvement.
- Initial assessment indicated a serious toxic exposure requiring immediate medical intervention.
Findings:
- Supportive care, including gastric lavage, was initiated promptly.
- The infant's clinical condition improved significantly with conservative management.
- Complete recovery was achieved without long-term sequelae, demonstrating the efficacy of timely intervention.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential neurotoxic and metabolic effects of clove oil in pediatric populations.
- Early recognition and management, including gastric decontamination, are vital for favorable outcomes.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms of clove oil toxicity may inform treatment protocols.
Abstract:
A case is presented in which a 7-month-old child developed central nervous system depression, urinary abnormalities and a large anion-gap acidosis after the accidental oral administration of clove oil. Supportive care and gastric lavage were sufficient for total recovery of the patient. Possible mechanisms of the depression and acidosis are discussed, and suggestions for treatment are presented.