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Ginkgo nut intoxication in a 2-year-old male
Shunji Hasegawa1, Yasutaka Oda, Takashi Ichiyama
1Department of Allergy, Yamaguchi University, School of Medicine, and Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Niigata City General Hospital, Japan.
Pediatric Neurology
|September 26, 2006
Summary
Ginkgo nut poisoning can cause seizures in children after consuming too many nuts. Prompt treatment with diazepam and pyridoxal phosphate is effective for ginkgo nut intoxication.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Ginkgo nuts contain toxins that can cause adverse effects.
- Accidental ingestion of toxic substances is a concern in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old male experienced vomiting and seizures after eating a large quantity of roasted ginkgo nuts.
- Elevated serum and urine concentrations of 4-O-methoxypyridoxine were detected in the patient.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with ginkgo nut intoxication.
- Intravenous administration of diazepam and pyridoxal phosphate led to symptom resolution.
Implications:
- Pediatricians and parents should be aware of the neurotoxic potential of ginkgo nuts.
- Early recognition and treatment are crucial for managing ginkgo nut poisoning in children.
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