Detoxification of cyanide in a new-born child

A well-developed male baby was given infusions of 2-5 microgram/kg/min of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in the first few days after birth on account of high arterial blood pressure. After 30 h of treatment, cyanide accumulation was found to have reached a life-threatening level. IV administration of 100 mg/kg of sodium thiosulphate promptly lowered the cyanide level. The mixed infusion of SNP together with thiosulphate, used in the subsequent course, was no longer toxic.