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PCP intoxication in young children and infants
Clinical Pediatrics
|August 1, 1980
Summary
Pediatric phencyclidine (PCP) intoxication presents with lethargy, strange behavior, and neurological signs. Early diagnosis via urine testing is crucial for prompt treatment and avoiding extensive workups in young children.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative anesthetic with potential for abuse.
- Pediatric intoxication cases are less common but present unique diagnostic and management challenges.
Observation:
- Six recent cases of PCP intoxication in children aged 5 and younger were observed at UCLA Medical Center.
- Ten additional cases from existing literature were reviewed for clinical findings.
Findings:
- Key indicators in young children include rapid onset lethargy/coma, unusual behavior, staring spells, ataxia, and nystagmus.
- Other potential signs encompass opisthotonos, hypertension, tachypnea, miosis, hyperreflexia, hypertonia, and rigidity.
- Urinary PCP detection is the most straightforward diagnostic method.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis of PCP intoxication is vital for timely, appropriate treatment and to prevent unnecessary, costly investigations.
- Recognizing PCP toxicity in infants is important, with one case suggesting accidental inhalation from environmental smoke exposure.
- Early identification facilitates essential family evaluations and interventions.