Profile and trend analysis of toxicological events in children attended by a University Hospital

Abstract

Background

Poisoning is an important public health problem with socioeconomic and health impact.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the profile and trend of toxicological events in children.

Method

Trend study conducted with children (children under 12 as defined by the Statute of Children and Adolescents) reported by the Toxicological Information Center (CIATox) of Londrina, from 2005 to 2014. The variables were collected through the CIATox-Londrina database. Trend analysis was performed using simple linear regression models.

Results

We identified 4,726 toxicological events in children, with a predominance of 1 to 3 years (59.2%). The majority (93.5%) was comprised of accidental cases, acute (99.8%) and with medication (34.6%) as toxicological agents. Approximately 88.1% of the patients did not require hospitalization, and the death rate was low (0.1%). There was a significant increase in the proportion of cases involving household products (R² = 0.440; p = 0.037; β1=0.307) and chemicals (R² = 0.456; p = 0.032; β1=0.345); and a significant reduction in accidents with rodenticides (R² = 0.589; p = 0.010; β1=-0.246).

Conclusion

We observed a prevalence of children from 1 to 3 years old of age, with accidental and acute exposure, mainly involving medications. We highlight a significant increase in the proportion of cases involving household products and chemical products, and a significant reduction in cases with rodenticides.

Keywords:
child; poisoning; drug