Frequency of Etiological Agents of Accidental Poisoning in Children Presenting in Emergency of a Tertiary Care HoSPITAL

Abstract

Objective: To find out the frequency of etiological agents of accidental poisoning in children
presenting to emergency of a teaching hospital of Lahore.
Methods: This cross sectional research was carried out in Emergency Department of Pediatrics
from June 2018 to December 2018. A total of 220 diagnosed cases of accidental poisoning in
children less than 12 years of age were included in study. Informed consent of the parents of
children was obtained to include their data in the study. Data regarding age, gender, was
recorded. Detailed interview was taken from parents regarding the name of the offending
chemical, drug and inquiry was also made about the route of entry of the substance. Container, its
covering or wrapping material where available was sent to laboratory for identification of poison.
Samples from stomach were also taken and sent for analysis. All these cases were classified
depending upon the substance involved in poisoning.
Results: Out of 220 cases, regarding age 47.73 % (n=105) were between 0-6 years while 52.27
% (n=115) were between 7-12 years. Mean age was 6.67+2.39 years. Majority (56.82%, n=125)
were females. The substances responsible for accidental poisoning were pharmacological
agents (36.82%, n=81), petroleum based products (24.55%, n=54), acid/alkali (20%, n=44) and
insecticides (18.63%, n=41).
Conclusions: Pharmacological agents are the most common substances responsible for
accidental poisoning in children presenting in emergency of a teaching hospital of Lahore.