ABSTRACT

This study aims to evaluate the general characteristics of patients with acute carbon monoxide poisoning in childhood.

Medical reports of 240 patients with carbon monoxide poisoning who were admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Department between January 2005 and 2013 (mean age, 82.5±56 months; 115 boys, 125 girls) were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic features of patients, sources of exposure, clinical signs, blood carboxyhemoglobin levels, laboratory findings, and treatment methods were evaluated.

Approximately half of the poisonings were observed in winter (December and January). Among the sources of exposure to carbon monoxide gas, the stove was found to be the most common source. Majority of patients suffered from fainting and headaches, whereas 16% of patients had no active complaints. The average of the initial blood carboxyhemoglobin level was 14.9±10%, and 14.2% of patients had a level of >25%. All patients underwent normobaric oxygen therapy, and 21.7% of them underwent hyperbaric oxygen treatment.

Unexpected deaths because of carbon monoxide poisoning gradually increase, particularly in winter. Carbon monoxide poisoning should be considered in the patients presenting with suspicious findings, particularly in winter. Blood carboxyhemoglobin levels are useful for diagnosis.

Keywords: Carbon monoxide poisoning, child, emergency department