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Lessons to be learned: a case study approachHyperactivity and confusion in the presentation of hyoscine overdoseStaff Grade Paediatrician Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Shrewsbury
Consultant Chemical Pathologist Department of Chemical Pathology East Surrey Hospital Redhill
Department of Chemical Pathology East Surrey Hospital
Child and Family Consultation Service East Surrey Hospital
Department of Paediatrics Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford The case report is presented of a ten-and-a-half year old boy with acute onset of confusion and visual hallucinations, subsequently confirmed to be due to hyoscine toxicity following ingestion of over-the-counter (OTC) travel sickness tablets. It is suggested that packs of such pills should carry a prominent cautionary label. A clear clinical history is very important - not only in aiding the differentiation of acute viral infections involving the central nervous system (such as acute encephalitis) from drug toxicity, but also in rationalising any further diagnostic investigations. The possible underlying reasons for drug ingestion in this case are discussed.
Key Words: Confusion denial hyoscine hyperactivity poisoning
The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, Vol. 117, No. 4,
242-244 (1997) |
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