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Serious complications associated with Dettol poisoning
T Y Chan1, M S Lau, J A Critchley
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, N.T.
The Quarterly Journal of Medicine
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Dettol poisoning is common in Hong Kong, causing serious complications like pneumonia and airway obstruction in 8% of cases. Prompt airway protection and intubation are crucial for survival after ingesting this disinfectant.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Public Health
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Dettol, a common household disinfectant, accounts for 10% of self-poisoning hospital admissions in Hong Kong.
- Previous reports indicate serious poisonings and fatalities from Dettol ingestion, but complication frequency remains unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of serious complications following Dettol ingestion.
- To identify specific adverse outcomes associated with Dettol poisoning.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on 67 patients admitted for Dettol poisoning.
- Data on complications and patient outcomes were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Serious complications occurred in 8% of the studied cases.
- Identified complications included aspiration pneumonia, cardiopulmonary arrest, bronchospasm, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and severe laryngeal edema with upper airway obstruction.
Conclusions:
- Serious complications from Dettol ingestion are relatively common.
- Adequate airway protection before gastric lavage is critical.
- Immediate recognition and intubation for upper airway obstruction can be life-saving.