When head trauma conceals the cause: status epilepticus due to camphor poisoning
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Date
2025-03
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Medip Academy
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.
Description
Keywords
Status epilepticus, Camphor poisoning, Pediatric toxicology, Accidental ingestion, Anticonvulsants, Misdiagnosed seizures
Citation
Kulkarni RG, Prajwal BG, Manjunathaswamy R, Pushpa SN. When head trauma conceals the cause: status epilepticus due to camphor poisoning. International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics. 2025 Mar; 12(3): 517-519