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Ethanol-induced hypoglycemic coma in a child
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|April 1, 1982
Summary
Accidental ethanol ingestion caused hypoglycemia and coma in a toddler. Prompt treatment with dextrose resolved the condition, highlighting the need for early recognition and management of this metabolic disorder.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Ethanol (alcohol) ingestion can lead to serious metabolic disturbances in children.
- Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a critical complication of ethanol toxicity.
Observation:
- A 33-month-old boy presented with hypoglycemic coma after accidental ethanol ingestion.
- His blood glucose was severely low (10 mg%) with significant blood ethanol levels (71 mg%).
Findings:
- The child experienced a rapid recovery following intravenous administration of 50% dextrose.
- This case underscores the potential for severe hypoglycemia following ethanol exposure in young children.
Implications:
- Early recognition and prompt management are crucial for favorable outcomes in ethanol-induced hypoglycemia.
- Understanding the pathophysiology and clinical presentation aids in preventing severe complications.