Hong Kong Poison Information Centre: Annual Report 2015

Abstract

Objective To report and analyse the poisoning data of Hong Kong Poison Information Centre (HKPIC) in 2015. Methods In 2015, all poisoning cases received by HKPIC were retrieved from its database [Poison Information and Clinical Management System (PICMS)] for analysis. Results A total of 3,960 poisoned cases were analysed. There were 1,770 male patients (44.7%), 2,176 female patients (55.0%) and 14 sex unspecified patients (0.4%). The majority of the cases (63.5%) were between 20 and 59 years old. Common causes for poisoning were suspected self-harm/suicidal attempt (38.4%), unintentional exposure (17.4%) and abusive substances use (11.6%). Excluding the common co-ingestant ethanol, the five commonest types of poison were paracetamol, benzodiazepine, household products, zopiclone and Chinese herbal medicine. Most patients were managed with supportive measures, while 16.4% and 16.2% of them were treated by decontamination and antidotes respectively. Majority of the cases had uneventful recovery; 1% resulted in death and 4.3% had major outcomes. Seven interesting cases and one outbreak were discussed. Conclusions This 10th annual report provided updated epidemiological information on poisoning pattern in Hong Kong and highlighted important changes in comparing with our previous reports.