Cutaneous poisoning syndromes in children: a review.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this article is to review cutaneous poisoning syndromes in the pediatric population and to describe the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in the management of these conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS: In recent years, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Center for Disease Control have been continuously monitoring the lowest blood levels of numerous elements and nutrients associated with the slightest degree of toxicity. This review will focus on the clinical presentation, recognition and management of poisoning with cutaneous manifestations such as carotenoderma, mercury, dioxin and arsenic poisoning.

SUMMARY: Despite numerous efforts of federal and local government agencies to decrease poisoning incidents among consumers, sporadic cases of cutaneous poisoning still arise. Pediatricians should be familiar with the clinical presentation of various toxic syndromes and, more importantly, be able to teach prevention during regular medical encounters.