Postscript-Case Study
Tim P. was diagnosed with chronic arsenic exposure, confirmed by 24-hour-urine testing. He was treated with DMSA and retested. Mrs. P. also administered arsenicum album, a homeopathic remedy, over a 3-month period. The diarrhea has not re-occurred in the past 7 months. Today, Tim still experiences some headaches and nausea, but no bloody diarrhea. He is back in school, succeeding academically and in sports. The family deck is being sealed every 2 years to try to contain the leaching of the arsenic. There is no way to know what the long-term effects will be for this young man.
The Environmental Health Hot Topics column focuses on issues, information, and practical guidelines related to environmental health problems, including sources of toxicants and resources for nurses to prevent, minimize, or treat adverse environmental exposures particularly as they relate to children. To suggest topics, obtain author guidelines, or to submit queries or manuscripts, contact Ann Pike-Paris, MS, RN, Section Editor; Pediatric Nursing, East Holly Avenue Box 56; Pitman, NJ 08071-0056; (856) 256-2300 or FAX (856) 256-2345.
Pediatr Nurs. 2004;30(3) © 2004 Jannetti Publications, Inc.
Cite this: Arsenic in a Child's World - Medscape - May 01, 2004.
Comments