When head trauma conceals the cause: status epilepticus due to camphor poisoning
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: A 2-year-old male child presented with status epilepticus following an accidental fall from the bed. Initial management focused on trauma-related seizures, but further evaluation revealed camphor poisoning as the underlying cause which was identified by the presence of a camphor-like odor in the nasogastric aspirate and confirmed by toxicology. This case underscores the importance of thorough clinical assessment and history-taking in cases of unexplained seizures. The patient was successfully treated with supportive care, including intubation, intravenous anticonvulsants, fluid therapy, and discharged in stable condition. Camphor poisoning, a common but under recognized cause of seizures in children, occurs in areas where camphor-containing products are widely available. The best possible outcomes in a child can only be assured when a condition is detected early and managed promptly as supportive management. Additionally, public health measures should be instituted to regulate and restrict access to camphor in order to prevent accidental poisonings.
Authors: Raghavendra Gopalrao Kulkarni, Prajwal B. G., Manjunathaswamy R., Pushpa S. N.
Institution: Subbaiah Medical College
Language: English
Subfield: Emergency Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4407874425