Evaluation of demographic characteristics in childhood poisoning cases

Objective: Poisoning is considered among avoidable causes of morbidity and mortality of childhood emergencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics in childhood poisoning cases. Methods: Poisoning cases (n:216) aged between 1 month-194 months (mean: 69.33+/-60.34 months) who applied to pediatric emergency unit of Dr. Behcet Uz Children Hospital between January 2012-December 2012 were evaluated retrospectively. Results: 216 (8%) intoxication cases out of 2641 cases applied to the emergency unit, and hospitalized for observation during one year period (girls, 59.3%, and boys, 40.7%). The highest incidence of poisoning was detected in the 2-5 years of age group (52.8%) and pharmaceutical agents (52.8 %) were the most commonly ingested agents in this age group. Poisonings were related to suicidal (21%) or accidental (79%) events. When evaluated according to the season they occurred, 31.1% of the patients presented in autumn, 26.7% in the summer, 22.2% in the winter, 20% in the spring. There was no report of mortality in these 216 cases who underwent proper monitorization, and supportive treatment. Conclusion: We think that it is important to determine the poisoning profile of our region in order to undertake preventive measures.