Document Type : Original research
Authors
1 Pediatrics Hospital, Kirkuk, Iraq
2 Department of Pediatrics, Azadi Teaching Hospital, Kirkuk, Iraq
Abstract
Background: Kerosene poisoning is a common accidental poisoning in children in developing countries, largely due to its domestic use and unsafe storage. Its low viscosity, high volatility, and low surface tension increase the risk of aspiration pneumonitis following ingestion. This study aims to identify the demographics, clinical signs, radiological findings, and treatment outcomes of kerosene poisoning in children in Kirkuk City.
Methods: Seventy-two children with kerosene ingestion were admitted to emergency departments in Kirkuk pediatric hospitals between June 1, 2020, and June 1, 2021. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire completed by parents, covering age, sex, residence, time and amount of ingestion, storage method, symptoms, and radiological findings. Patients’ ages ranged from 10 months to 10 years, with 54 boys (75%) and 18 girls (25%).
Result: Most cases (75%) involved boys, with the highest frequency in children under three years of age. Kerosene poisoning occurred more often during the summer. The most common symptom was coughing within the first six hours. Aspiration pneumonitis was typically mild to moderate, and no deaths were reported. Vomiting, particularly when induced, was significantly associated with the development of pneumonitis.
Conclusions: Kerosene poisoning in Kirkuk City is predominantly a seasonal and age-related issue, affecting young boys during warmer months. Although cases are generally mild, radiological imaging is critical in evaluating pneumonitis, as clinical signs alone may be misleading. Educating caregivers about safe storage and the risk of inducing vomiting is essential to reduce complications.
Keywords
Main Subjects
)
