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[Theophylline poisoning in children]
P E Jira1, B A Semmekrot, T B Vree
1Afd. Kindergeneeskunde, Academisch Ziekenhuis, Nijmegen.
Insights
Severe theophylline intoxication in infants can cause vomiting, agitation, and tachycardia. Prompt treatment, like peritoneal dialysis or haemoperfusion, is crucial for survival and recovery without lasting effects.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Theophylline is a medication used to treat respiratory diseases.
- Severe intoxication can occur, particularly in infants, necessitating prompt medical intervention.
Observation:
- Three infants (1, 3, and 9 months) presented with severe theophylline intoxication.
- Serum theophylline concentrations ranged from 44 to 156 mg/l.
- Clinical manifestations included vomiting, agitation, tachycardia, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias.
Findings:
- All three infants survived and recovered fully without sequelae.
- Peritoneal dialysis was performed on one patient.
- Haemoperfusion is identified as a definitive treatment for severe cases.
Implications:
- Early recognition and management of theophylline toxicity are vital in pediatric patients.
- Haemoperfusion should be considered for severe theophylline intoxication to ensure favorable outcomes.
Abstract:
Three infants aged 1, 3 and 9 months with severe theophylline intoxication are reported. Maximum serum theophylline concentrations were 65, 44 and 156 mg/l, respectively. Vomiting, agitation and tachycardia are the classical features. Seizures and cardiac arrhythmias suggest severe intoxication. The third patient underwent immediate peritoneal dialysis. All patients survived and recovered without sequelae. Haemoperfusion is considered to be the definite treatment for severe forms of theophylline intoxication.