Hong Kong Poison Information Centre: Annual report 2017

Abstract

Objectives: To report and analyse the poisoning data of Hong Kong Poison Information Centre in 2017. Methods: In 2017, all poisoning cases received by Hong Kong Poison Information Centre were retrieved from its database (Poison Information and Clinical Management System) for analysis. Results: A total of 3956 poisoned cases were analysed. There were 1789 male patients (45.2%), 2159 female patients (54.6%) and 8 sex‐unspecified patients (0.2%). The majority of cases (59.9%) were between 20 and 59 years old. The common causes of poisoning were suspected self‐harm/suicidal attempt (36.2%), unintentional exposure (18.6%) and abusive substance use (13.7%). Excluding the common co‐ingestant ethanol, the five commonest types of poison were benzodiazepines, paracetamol, zopiclone, Chinese herbal medicine and household products. Most patients were managed with supportive measures, while 17.4% and 13.2% of consultation cases were treated by decontamination and antidotes, respectively. The majority of the cases had uneventful recovery; 1.1% resulted in death and 4.3% had major outcomes. A total of 13 interesting cases and 1 poisoning outbreak were discussed. Conclusion: This 12th annual report provided the updated epidemiological information on poisoning pattern in Hong Kong and highlighted important changes in comparison with our previous reports.