Acute poisoning in children and adolescents hospitalized at the Institute of Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina between 2015-2017

Introduction. Acute pediatric poisoning has become an increasingly important medical emergency. This study was aimed at determining characteristics of acute poisoning in children and adolescents hospitalized at the Institute of Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina from 2015 to 2017. Material and Methods. Data were collected from medical records of all patients hospitalized for suspected acute intoxication at the Institute of Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina during the observed time. Results. This study included 519 patients hospitalized for suspected exposure to toxic substances. There were 49% male and 51% female patients. The intoxications had no seasonal features. The toxic substances were commonly taken orally. Medications were the most frequent cause of all poisonings, among which the most commonly reported were drugs for central nervous system disorders. Medications were the most frequent cause of poisoning in children and adolescents, as well as in children up to 10 years of age. In adolescents, the most prevalent cause of intoxication was alcohol abuse. Poisoning with suicidal intent and intentional self-poisoning without suicidal attempt were considerably more frequent in girls than in boys. There were no fatalities. Conclusion. It is of great importance to be familiar with the characteristics and circumstances of acute poisoning to plan and implement adequate preventive measures.