Abstract:
Camphor is a common
household product with unrecognized
neurologic side effects, especially
seizure. This report is
aimed at raising awareness among
healthcare providers of camphor
poisoning as an unusual cause of
seizure. A 23-month-old previously
well female child, presented
with vomiting and generalized
seizures. Symptoms started about
30 minutes after inadvertent ingestion
of camphor oil. Examination
findings revealed a conscious
child with no focal neurological
deficit. Investigation findings
were within normal limits. A diagnosis
of camphor poisoning with
seizures was made. She was
treated with phenobarbitone and
other supportive management with
no recurrence of seizure. Healthcare
providers need high index of
suspicion about this an unusual
cause of seizure. There is also a
need for community education and
appropriate regulation of camphor
use for children.
