POISONING BY GASSES IN CHILDREN
Tzola E, Vadala H,
Sofidiotou V, Fountas K, Papathanassiou V, Valti E
Poison Information Centre, Children’s
Hospital “P & A Kyriakou”, Athens, Greece
Objective: The study of poisoning by gasses in
children and description of causative agents and the circumstances of
poisoning, with the aim of prevention.
Methods: During the period 1998-2000 the Greek
Poison Information Centre recorded 80 children (44 boys and 36 girls)
poisoned by gasses and their epidemiological data and clinical
manifestations.
Results: The mean age of the children studied was
6.51 years (40 days-15 years). Most cases (55.6%) occurred at home during
winter. The toxic gasses reported were: gas (butane 70 %+propane 30 %)
51.2%, carbon monoxide 40%, fire gasses 5%, Butane 3.75% and their sources
were: heating and cooking appliances, fires and motor vehicles. The
clinical manifestations were: dyspnea, cough, nausea, vomiting, weakness,
ataxia, myoclonia, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, confusion, coma and
death. The treatment included: removing the patient from unsafe area,
oxygen administration, and other general supportive measures. The outcome
of the majority of patients was favorable. However there was one death
caused by gas.
Conclusion: Poisoning by gasses in children is a
serious problem. As the majority of cases occur at home, it is of utter
importance that adults be informed about the potential dangers hidden in
their houses in order to take preventive measures.