Systemic Toxicity of Topical Cyclopentolate Ophthalmic Solution in a Child

Abstract

Cyclopentolate hydrochloride (CH) is a topical agent used in ophthalmological examinations for mydriasis whose both ocular and systemic side effects can occur after administration. In children, the risk of intoxication increases depending on many risk factors such as smaller body mass index or being severely ill. After the administration of CH ophthalmic solution in the ophthalmology outpatient clinic, an 8-year-old patient with complaints of speaking difficulties and flushing was admitted to the pediatric emergency department. Tachycardia, bilateral mydriasis, and dysarthria were detected and she was diagnosed with the anticholinergic syndrome. Neurological findings improved after 3 hours and mydriasis after 30 hours. It should be taken into consideration that systemic effects may occur as a result of cyclopentolate topical drug application, especially in children, even at an appropriate dose.