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Near-Fatal Spice Intoxication of a Toddler.

Near-Fatal Spice Intoxication of a Toddler.

Authors :
Ruiz-Maldonado TM
Dorey A
Christensen ED
Campbell KA
Source :
Pediatrics [Pediatrics] 2021 Aug; Vol. 148 (2). Date of Electronic Publication: 2021 Jul 07.
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Synthetic cannabinoids are a heterogenous group of novel, legally regulated psychoactive substances that can result in broad, multisystemic, dangerous effects. Despite growing literature regarding synthetic cannabinoid toxicity, little is known about the extent of these effects in young children. Caregivers of drug-endangered children may not provide an accurate history of exposure when children present with symptoms of intoxication, and lack of swift detection on routine urine drug screens may further obscure and delay the diagnosis. Clinical recognition carries forensic relevance that may support interventions to aid in protecting vulnerable children. We describe a case of near-fatal child maltreatment due to supervisory neglect resulting from ingestion of an increasingly common synthetic cannabinoid. Furthermore, we highlight clinical findings that should increase a physician's index of suspicion for synthetic cannabinoid toxicity, even in the absence of a history of exposure.<br />Competing Interests: POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST: Drs Ruiz-Maldonado, Christensen, and Campbell have provided medicolegal consultation and expert testimony on cases of suspected child abuse and neglect. Dr Campbellā€™s institution and Dr Christensen has received compensation for providing expert testimony; and Dr Dorey has indicated she has no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.<br /> (Copyright © 2021 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1098-4275
Volume :
148
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Pediatrics
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
34233919
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2021-050888