Lightning Injury: Case of a 7-Year-Old Child Struck by Lightning in Region 8 Guyana

Abstract

Background: It is estimated that lightning occurrence frequency worldwide is 50 occurrences per second with 20% of those resulting in ground strikes. It is estimated that approximately 24,000 fatalities occur worldwide due to lightning strikes and in the US 25-50 patients die each year. The mechanisms of injury due to lightning strike are numerous which includes the effects of the electrical current passing through body tissue, burns and mechanical trauma. Cardiac and respiratory arrest are more common with direct lightning strikes and may lead to sudden death. Case Presentation: Here we present a case of child who was struck by lightning in a hinterland region. The child was found in an unconscious state by a passerby. He was then taken to a local health post where he regained consciousness. Initial vitals were stable, and child appeared to have suffered burns about the body. Arrangements were made and he was air dashed to GPHC. He was alert with stable vitals when he arrived, appeared to have suffered minor burns about the body. His ECG, X rays and CT head were all normal. He had an elevated CPK level which caused concern for Rhabdomyolysis. He was admitted to the paediatric ward. Outcome: The child spent 3 days on the ward, where he was monitored closely for any delayed complications related to lightning injuries. His CPK had normalized, he received dressings for his burns and was subsequently discharged home. Keywords: Lightning Strike, Lightening Injuries