Investigating the relationship between the intoxicated drug and clinical profile of children with drug poisoning: a cross-sectional study in a tertiary referral hospital.

Abstract

Background: Pediatric drug poisoning is a significant public health concern, with opioids being the most common agents in poisoning cases. Despite its importance, limited data are available on the relationship between clinical presentations, laboratory findings, and the age of affected children.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory profiles of pediatric drug poisoning cases and to assess age-related variations in symptoms and laboratory markers.

Methods: A retrospective analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in the emergency department, from April to October 2023. The study included 82 children aged below 12 years with positive toxicology tests. Demographic data, clinical symptoms (lethargy, seizures, respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms), and laboratory findings (pH, HCO₃, base excess [BE], PCO₂, and heart rate) were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results: Methadone (48.8%) was the most common substance involved in poisoning, and lethargy (89.0%) was the most prevalent symptom. Respiratory symptoms were more common in younger children (P < 0.001), while lethargy was more frequent in older children (P = 0.032). Laboratory findings indicated metabolic acidosis with reduced pH (7.24 ± 0.15), BE (-8.13 ± 6.0), and HCO₃ (19.3 ± 4.5). Tachycardia was observed in most cases (116.6 ± 26.1 bpm).

Conclusion: Pediatric drug poisoning, particularly methadone poisoning, poses significant risks, with lethargy and respiratory symptoms being prominent age-related presentations. Metabolic acidosis emerges as a key diagnostic marker. These findings underscore the importance of early recognition, targeted interventions, and prevention strategies, including safe medication storage and caregiver education.