Severe neurotoxic reaction associated with oral ingestion of low-dose diethyltoluamide-containing insect repellent in a child

Abstract

N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) is the major component of almost all tick repellent products. Reports of severe adverse reactions following voluntary ingestion are rare and primarily involve adults. This report describes a case of a toxic reaction after ingestion of low doses (80 mg/kg) of DEET in a child. The signs and symptoms were coma and seizures within 2 hours of ingestion. The patient recovered without sequelae. It is concluded that even scant doses of DEET may provoke severe encephalopathy in small children, and caution should be used when leaving this chemical unattended.