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Neem oil poisoning.
Ramchandra K Dhongade1, Sandeep G Kavade, Rushikesh S Damle
1Sant Dnyaneshwar Medical Education and Research Center, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Indian Pediatrics
|February 6, 2008
Summary
Neem oil poisoning is rare in children, causing severe seizures and metabolic acidosis. This case highlights potential long-term neurological issues like vision and hearing problems, and ataxia.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Neem oil, a natural pesticide, is widely used but can be toxic if ingested.
- Accidental poisoning in children is a significant concern, necessitating awareness of potential health impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document an unusual case of neem oil poisoning in a pediatric patient.
- To describe the clinical presentation, management, and neurological sequelae of neem oil toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing the clinical course of a 5-year-old child.
- Review of symptoms including refractory seizures and metabolic acidosis.
- Assessment of neurological deficits, including auditory, visual, and motor disturbances.
Main Results:
- The child presented with severe, difficult-to-treat seizures and metabolic acidosis.
- Following initial recovery, the patient developed persistent neurological deficits.
- Observed sequelae included auditory disturbances, visual disturbances, and ataxia.
Conclusions:
- Neem oil poisoning can lead to severe acute symptoms and significant long-term neurological complications in children.
- Early recognition and management are crucial, but late-onset neurological deficits underscore the severity of this toxicity.
- This case emphasizes the need for caution in the use and storage of neem oil around children.
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