CNS toxicity after topical application of EMLA cream on a toddler with molluscum contagiosum.

Abstract

EMLA (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) cream is used topically to provide local anesthesia for a variety of painful superficial procedures. Although the side effects of EMLA are usually mild and transient local skin reactions, potential life threatening complications can be encountered. We report a case of central nervous toxicity after EMLA application for curettage of molluscum contagiosum lesions in a pediatric patient. This complication was the result of a therapeutic misadventure that led to an excessive application of EMLA cream over an extensive area causing an overdose of lidocaine and prilocaine with their subsequent systemic toxicities.

• Authors: E Rincon, R L Baker, A J Iglesias, A M Duarte
• Journal: Pediatric emergency care (Pediatr Emerg Care) Vol. 16 Issue 4 Pg. 252-4 (Aug 2000) ISSN: 0749-5161 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10966344 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anesthetics, Combined
• Anesthetics, Local
• Ointments
• Prilocaine
• Lidocaine

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Anesthetics, Combined (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Anesthetics, Local (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Central Nervous System (drug effects)
• Female
• Humans
• Infant
• Lidocaine (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Medication Errors
• Molluscum Contagiosum (surgery)
• Ointments
• Prilocaine (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Seizures (chemically induced)