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Organophosphate poisoning in a 12-day-old infant: case report

D A O'Reilly1, G T Heikens

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi. dominicoreilly@doctors.net.uk

Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|July 26, 2011
PubMed

Insights

A 12-day-old infant experienced severe respiratory distress, initially treated as pneumonia. Prompted by poor response, organophosphate poisoning was suspected and confirmed by a positive response to atropine, marking the youngest reported case.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Toxicology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Infants are susceptible to environmental toxins.
  • Organophosphate poisoning can mimic common pediatric illnesses.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for infant outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 12-day-old infant presented with lethargy and respiratory distress.
  • Initial treatment for presumed pneumonia was ineffective.
  • Clinical deterioration prompted a differential diagnosis review.

Findings:

  • Organophosphate poisoning was suspected in the infant.
  • The infant showed a significant clinical improvement after atropine administration.
  • This case represents the youngest infant documented with organophosphate exposure.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering toxicological etiologies in critically ill infants.
  • Underscores the need for heightened awareness of organophosphate exposure risks in neonates.
  • Emphasizes the critical role of prompt antidote administration in managing pediatric poisoning.

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