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Camphor toxicity: development of a triage strategy
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Camphor ingestion is generally safe, with most patients remaining asymptomatic. However, significant symptoms and fatalities are associated with higher doses, necessitating specific triage guidelines for gastric decontamination and referral.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Camphor is present in over 950 products, leading to potential ingestions.
- Establishing clear triage guidelines for camphor ingestion is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop triage guidelines for gastric decontamination and referral following camphor ingestion.
- To analyze the relationship between camphor dosage and clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of camphor ingestions (≥2 mg/kg) reported to U. VA and M.C.V. from 1980-1983.
- Literature review of 63 previously reported camphor ingestion cases to determine fatal dose ranges.
Main Results:
- Out of 73 reviewed patients, 90% were asymptomatic, 4% had minor symptoms, and 6% developed major symptoms (all >59 mg/kg).
- No deaths occurred in the reviewed patient group.
- Literature review indicated a mean fatal dose of 199 mg/kg (range 64-570 mg/kg).
Conclusions:
- Observation is recommended for asymptomatic ingestions <10 mg/kg.
- Home management with activated charcoal or emesis is suggested for 10-30 mg/kg ingestions.
- Gastric decontamination and referral are advised for ingestions >30 mg/kg.