Citation

Fadeyibi IO, Mustapha IA, Ibrahim NA, Faduyile FI, Faboya MO, Jewo PI, Ademiluyi SA. Burns 2011; 37(3): 528-534.

Affiliation

Burns & Plastic Unit, Department of Surgery, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH)/College of Medicine, Lagos State University (LASUCOM), Ikeja-Lagos, Nigeria.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.burns.2010.09.015

PMID

21144666

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Children are the most risk prone in cases of burns. The previous epidemiologic study of paediatric burns in Lagos-Nigeria was carried four decades ago. A new study becomes necessary in view of the increasing incidences of petroleum related fire disasters in Nigeria. PATIENTS AND METHODS: : Children up to the age of 14 years admitted for major burns at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja-Lagos, Nigeria between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2008 were studied. Information about the demographics, mechanism/circumstances of burns, associated injuries, surface extent (TBSA) and depth, modes of management and outcome, length of admission, and post mortem findings in cases of death were collected. RESULTS: : A total of 298 children with major burns were seen; 198 were males and 100 females. The ages ranged from 1 day to 14 years with mean of 4.56±3.95 years. Forty percent of the cases occurred among the toddlers and 25.5% in the 2-5 years age group. Fire was the leading cause of burns, occurring in 198 (66.4%) cases. The TBSA ranged from 1% to 100% with mean of 29.67±21.98. The mortality rate was 29.9%. Autopsy showed asphyxia as the primary cause of death in 14 (48.27%) cases, multiple organ dysfunctions in 27.59% and septicaemia in 13.79%. CONCLUSION: This study identifies the main causes of paediatric burns and the major factors responsible for morbidity and mortality at the present time in a low income country. The level of awareness about burns prevention among the populace and health care facilities should be improved.

Language: en