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Updated: Oct 19, 2025

Adaptation of Microelectrode Array Technology for the Study of Anesthesia-induced Neurotoxicity in the Intact Piglet Brain
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Acute Cytotoxic Cerebellar Edema Subsequent to Fentanyl Patch Intoxication in an Infant

Lindsey N Haut1, Rupa Radhakrishnan2, Riad Lutfi3

  • 1Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, IN, USA.

Case Reports in Critical Care
|September 20, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Accidental exposure to fentanyl patches can cause severe brain swelling in infants. Prompt medical attention is vital to prevent life-threatening outcomes from opioid-induced neurotoxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Toxicology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The ongoing opioid epidemic presents significant risks to children, including accidental exposure and overdose.
  • Opioid medications are increasingly accessible, leading to a rise in pediatric poisoning incidents.
  • Understanding opioid-induced neurotoxicity is critical for managing severe complications.

Observation:

  • This case report details an infant who experienced acute cerebellar cytotoxic edema.
  • The edema resulted from accidental mucosal exposure to a transdermal fentanyl patch.
  • Cerebellar cytotoxic edema is a life-threatening complication requiring immediate medical intervention.

Findings:

  • Transdermal fentanyl exposure can induce acute cerebellar cytotoxic edema in infants.
  • Early recognition and intervention are essential to mitigate high morbidity and mortality rates.
  • This case highlights the severe neurotoxic potential of opioids even with non-ingestive exposure routes.

Implications:

  • Healthcare providers must be vigilant for opioid-induced neurotoxicity in pediatric cases of accidental exposure.
  • Public health strategies should emphasize safe storage and disposal of opioid medications to prevent child exposure.
  • Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of opioid-induced neurotoxicity in children.

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