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Characteristic manifestations of acute paint thinner-intoxicated children
Khosrow Agin1, Hossein Hassanian-Moghaddam1, Shahin Shadnia1
1Toxicological Research Center, Loghman-Hakim Hospital, Department of Clinical Toxicology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Insights
Paint thinner (PT) poisoning in children causes liver damage and pneumonia. Early treatment and prompt transfer to a poisoning center significantly improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Paint thinner (PT) poisoning is a significant health concern in children.
- Acute clinical and para-clinical abnormalities associated with PT poisoning require thorough evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acute clinical and para-clinical abnormalities in children suffering from paint thinner poisoning.
- To identify key indicators of toxicity and assess factors influencing patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of medical records and questionnaires from 42 children with PT intoxication (2008-2013).
- Assessment of clinical biochemistry (alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase) and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis.
- Chest X-ray imaging to identify pulmonary abnormalities.
Main Results:
- Elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were observed.
- Chest X-rays predominantly showed right-sided alveolar air space consolidation, indicating pneumonia.
- Hepatotoxicity and pneumonia were confirmed as common complications.
Conclusions:
- Paint thinner poisoning in children can lead to significant hepatotoxicity and pneumonia.
- Early treatment and management are crucial for positive patient outcomes.
- Timely transfer to a specialized poisoning center is recommended for effective care.
Abstract:
In this study, we evaluated the acute clinical and para-clinical abnormalities arising from paint thinner (PT) poisoning in children. Data were collected from 2008 to 2013, and sourced from the medical records of PT-intoxicated children and through questionnaires. A total of 42 children were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 37.2±2.4 months. The participants ranged from10 to 96 months of age; with a median age of 3 months; and a modal age of 24 months. The sex ratio in the study was 22 males (64.9%) to 20 females (35.1%). Clinical biochemistry results of participants revealed the significant presence of alkaline phosphatase (ALP, 569.25±151.58U/L), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 576.14±164.97 IU/L). Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis was also carried out. Chest X-ray predominantly revealed right side alveolar air space consolidation. These results confirmed hepatotoxicity and pneumonia in PT-intoxicated children. The study also revealed that positive outcomes were achieved in patients with early treatment and management. In addition, the current finding confirmed the timely transfer of the victim to the poisoning center.