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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

High Content Screening Analysis to Evaluate the Toxicological Effects of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents (HPHC)
11:38

High Content Screening Analysis to Evaluate the Toxicological Effects of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents (HPHC)

Published on: May 10, 2016

[Accidental poisoning by volatile hydrocarbons in children (apropos of 57 cases)]

J B Jouet, O Ferrand, D Grimbert

    Toxicological European Research. Recherche Europeenne En Toxicologie
    |September 1, 1983
    PubMed

    Insights

    Accidental hydrocarbon ingestion in children often leads to respiratory issues and fever. Due to the volatile nature of these substances, gastric lavage is dangerous and unnecessary for pediatric patients.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric toxicology
    • Pulmonology
    • Emergency medicine

    Background:

    • Accidental ingestion of volatile hydrocarbons is a common cause of pediatric hospital admissions.
    • Ingested products include aliphatic (white spirit, petrol) and aromatic hydrocarbons.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze clinical and radiological manifestations of hydrocarbon ingestion in children.
    • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of interventions for hydrocarbon poisoning.

    Main Methods:

    • Retrospective analysis of 57 children admitted to The American Memorial Hospital in Reims between 1973 and 1982.
    • Data collection on patient demographics, ingested substances, clinical symptoms, and radiological findings.

    Main Results:

    • The average age of affected children was 24 months, with small amounts ingested.
    • Common early symptoms included respiratory distress, digestive issues, and high fever.
    • Radiological findings showed an alveolar pattern in lower lobes, with pneumatoceles being typical.
    • Recovery was generally complete.

    Conclusions:

    • Hydrocarbon aspiration into the lungs occurs readily due to product volatility, irrespective of aspiration events.
    • Gastric lavage is contraindicated in hydrocarbon ingestion due to its ineffectiveness and potential danger.

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