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Superwarfarin poisoning in children: a prospective study.
S C Smolinske1, D L Scherger, P S Kearns
1Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, CO 80204-4507.
Pediatrics
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Accidental ingestion of superwarfarins in children can cause coagulopathy. Monitoring prothrombin time at 24 and 48 hours post-ingestion is crucial for detecting anticoagulation effects.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Accidental ingestion of long-acting anticoagulant rodenticides (superwarfarins) poses a risk to children.
- Coagulopathy is a potential complication following exposure to these substances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, severity, onset, and duration of coagulopathy in children after ingesting superwarfarins.
- To evaluate the predictive factors for abnormal prothrombin time.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 110 children with accidental superwarfarin ingestion.
- Prothrombin time (PT) measurements were obtained at 24 and 48 hours post-ingestion.
- Clinical signs of toxicity were recorded.
Main Results:
- Eight out of 110 children (7.3%) showed prolonged prothrombin time ratio (≥1.2).
- Abnormal PT values were more frequent at 48 hours (17.6%) than at 24 hours (1.9%).
- Ingested amount and presence of dye did not predict abnormal PT; acute toxicity signs were transient.
Conclusions:
- Superwarfarin ingestion can lead to coagulopathy in children.
- Prothrombin time monitoring at both 24 and 48 hours is recommended for early detection.
- Further studies are needed to determine the duration of PT prolongation.