Joshua D Whitesides1, Major Nathaniel Turner2, Susan Watts1, Sarah A Watkins1,3. 1. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, Department of Emergency Medicine, El Paso, Texas. 2. William Beaumont Army Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, El Paso, Texas. 3. West Texas Poison Control Center, El Paso, Texas.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: We present a case of intentional ingestion of a piece of plastic explosive in a military patient that resulted in tonic-clonic seizure and gastrointestinal illness. CASE REPORT: Although uncommon, such ingestions have been reported in military journals since the Vietnam War. Access to plastic explosives is generally limited to military personnel, and non-military medical providers may not be familiar with treatment of acute intoxication. CONCLUSION: It is imperative to refresh awareness and provide education to heighten suspicion and broaden differential diagnosis for patients presenting with new onset syncope or seizure, particularly in the military population.
INTRODUCTION: We present a case of intentional ingestion of a piece of plastic explosive in a military patient that resulted in tonic-clonic seizure and gastrointestinal illness. CASE REPORT: Although uncommon, such ingestions have been reported in military journals since the Vietnam War. Access to plastic explosives is generally limited to military personnel, and non-military medical providers may not be familiar with treatment of acute intoxication. CONCLUSION: It is imperative to refresh awareness and provide education to heighten suspicion and broaden differential diagnosis for patients presenting with new onset syncope or seizure, particularly in the military population.