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Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
Published on: March 6, 2018
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate poisoning from toy beads
Naren Gunja1, Evelyn Doyle, Kevin Carpenter
1NSW Poisons Information Centre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia. NarenG@chw.edu.au
The Medical Journal of Australia
|November 21, 2007
Summary
Two children experienced decreased consciousness after ingesting toy beads. The beads contained 1,4-butanediol, which the body converts to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), leading to a product recall.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Consumer Product Safety
Background:
- Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant with potential for abuse.
- Accidental ingestion of toxic substances in children is a significant public health concern.
- The metabolism of precursor chemicals to GHB can lead to unexpected toxicity.
Observation:
- Two pediatric patients presented with altered mental status, including decreased consciousness.
- One patient experienced persistent vomiting and a seizure.
- Urine metabolic screening revealed elevated levels of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB).
Findings:
- Toy beads ingested by the children were analyzed and found to contain 1,4-butanediol.
- 1,4-butanediol is a known precursor that is metabolized to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in the human body.
- The clinical presentation was consistent with gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) toxicity.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential danger of consumer products containing hidden toxic precursors.
- Prompt identification of the toxic agent and its metabolic pathway was crucial for patient management.
- The findings led to regulatory action, including an international recall of the contaminated toy beads, preventing further exposures.
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