Work

Accidental amphetamine ingestion in an infant: expanding the differential for seizure-like activity

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Amphetamine ingestion in infants is uncommon but can mimic serious neurologic conditions such as epileptic seizures or meningitis. We report a 4-month-old boy who presented with irritability, high blood pressure, and seizure-like activity. Against a possible infectious cause, he underwent neuroimaging and empirical administration of ceftriaxone and acyclovir. An infectious cause was not discovered despite the workup. Neuroimaging, respiratory polymerase chain reaction, and laboratory studies were all unremarkable. A urine drug screen later confirmed that the infant had ingested amphetamine, which explained his symptoms. After discontinuing the empirical treatment, he was discharged on day 3 in a stable condition. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis and using a urine drug screen as a diagnostic tool early in the workup of an infant with sympathomimetic toxidrome or seizure-like activity.

Source: Pediatric Emergency Medicine Journal

DOI: 10.22470/pemj.2025.01459

Authors: Arthur Caetano De Souza, Nancy Joseph

Institutions: University of Florida Health, University of Florida

Language: English

Topic: Poisoning and overdose treatments

Subfield: Emergency Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $200