Other Hydrocarbons and kerosene poisoning approach

KEROSENE INGESTION AND HYDROCARBONS POISONING

Introduction

Hydrocarbons are organic compound made entirely of carbon and hydrogen elements/atoms.paraffin/kerosene poisoning is a major concern in countries that are not developed(it is used for lighting and cooking esp. urban areas).Kerosene aspiration is common in children.

principles of management

• gastric lavage or emesis is Strictly contraindicated: increased risk of chemical aspiration/pneumonitis.
• Admit patient to observe for respiratory distress and treat symptomatically.
• due to massive inhalation, Cerebral effects may occur secondary to hypoxia.
• steroids and antibiotics can be helpful in lipoid pneumonia (especially liquid paraffin).
• Chest X ray should be done.

Reference

1.AL Jones, PI Dargon, What is new in toxicology? Current Pediatrics( 2001)11, 409 – 413
2.Fiona Jepsen, Mary Ryan, Poisoning in children. Current Pediatrics 2005, 15563 – 5683.Rogers textbook of Pediatric Intensive Care 4th edition Chapter 31