Injection-induced sciatic nerve injury in Ugandan children
Fred Chuma Sitati1, Edward Naddumba, Tito Beyeza
1PCEA Kikuyu Hospital, Orthopedic Unit, Kikuyu, Nairobi 00200, Kenya. fredsitati@gmail.com
Insights
Gluteal intramuscular injections in children frequently cause sciatic nerve injury, often due to quinine. Researchers recommend avoiding this injection site in pediatric patients to prevent nerve damage.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric medicine
- Neurology
- Public health
Background:
- Sciatic nerve injury is a significant complication of gluteal intramuscular injections in developing nations.
- Acute flaccid paralysis in children is a concerning neurological issue requiring investigation into its causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and causes of sciatic nerve injury in children presenting with acute flaccid paralysis.
- To identify specific drugs associated with injection-induced nerve damage.
Main Methods:
- A 6-month observational study was conducted at Mulago hospital.
- 133 children with acute flaccid paralysis were evaluated for a history of gluteal intramuscular injections.
Main Results:
- Out of 133 children, 124 (93%) had injection-induced sciatic nerve injury.
- Quinine was identified as the causative drug in 79 cases (59.4%).
Conclusions:
- The gluteal region is an unsafe site for intramuscular injections in children.
- Preventing sciatic nerve injury requires re-evaluation of pediatric injection practices, particularly concerning quinine administration.
Abstract:
In developing countries, sciatic nerve injury following gluteal intramuscular injection is a persistent problem. A study over 6 months involving 133 children seen in Mulago hospital with acute flaccid paralysis revealed 124 (93%) children with injection-induced sciatic nerve injury. The identity of the drug in 79 cases (59.4%) was quinine. It is recommended that the gluteal region should not be used as an intramuscular injection site in children.
