Severe Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in a Child
Author Information
Author(s): Wu Chang-Teng, Huang Jing-Long, Hsia Shao-Hsuan
Primary Institution: Department of Pediatrics, Children Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tauyuan, Taiwan
Conclusion
Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide resulted in severe cardiopulmonary compromise in a child, but he recovered without lasting effects.
Supporting Evidence
- The child was exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide for 6 to 8 hours.
- Initial arterial blood gases showed severe hypoxemia.
- The child was intubated and treated with 100% oxygen.
- The carboxyhemoglobin level was 51.9% shortly after discovery.
- The child showed improvement in cardiovascular and respiratory status over several days.
Takeaway
A 15-year-old boy got very sick from breathing in carbon monoxide from a heater, but after treatment, he got better and didn't have any lasting problems.
Methodology
The case was managed with oxygen therapy, inotropic support, and monitoring of blood gases and cardiac function.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
One 15-year-old male child.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website