[Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of severe poisoning in an adult population admitted to an intensive care unit].
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiological features of severe acute poisonings in an adult population. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of clinical cases. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Analysis of the clinical charts, risk factors and main outcomes of 55 acute poisoned patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). RESULTS: Of the 55 clinical charts reviewed, female prevailed over male gender with a relation of 1.5:1, the average age was 32 years (16-83 years), the major etiologic factor for the acute poisonings were drugs in 35 cases (64%), and home or work chemicals in 20 cases (36%). The mechanisms of intoxication/poisoning were: attempted or successful suicide in 51 cases (93%), accidental poisoning in three cases (5%), and iatrogenic in one case (2%). Precipitating factors were major depressive disorder in 29 cases (53%), dysthymic disorder in 12 cases (22%) and adjustment disorder with depressive mood or impulsive act in nine cases (16%). Associated feature comorbid conditions were: homosexuality, schizophrenia, drug addiction, AIDS, other chronic diseases, and previous suicide attempts. Outcomes were 33 (60%) patients discharged from the ICU without sequela, seven (13%) with permanent severe sequela and 15 (27%) deaths. CONCLUSIONS: There was a high rate of suicides related with depressive disorders in a predominantly female population. Drug products were used more frequently than home or work chemicals. Although advanced life support and antidotal treatments were available, mortality was high. Areas where injury prevention efforts might have an influence on adult poisoning morbidity and mortality include management of depression as well suitable control of drugs and chemicals.