Citation

Reed ES, Leikin S, Kerman HD. Am. J. Dis. Child. (1911) 1950; 79(4): 623-632.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1950, American Medical Association)

DOI

10.1001/archpedi.1950.04040010638002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

KEROSENE is a variable hydrocarbon complex derived from petroleum and is used for heating and lighting purposes, chiefly in the rural areas. It is frequently left carelessly about the house in open cans, bottles and other containers in reach of children who may find them and attempt to drink the contents.

Kerosene ingestion may be followed by (1) acute toxicity with depression, (2) severe pneumonia with fever or (3) severe pneumonia with degenerative changes in the liver, kidneys, lungs and heart.

In a four year study at the Louisville General Hospital, children with kerosene pneumonia represented 1.4 per cent of all patients in the pediatric age group discharged with the diagnosis of pneumonia.