Epidemiological Insights into Xenobiotic-Induced Seizures: A Correlational Descriptive Study from a Poisoning Referral Center in Northwestern Iran.

BACKGROUND

Seizure is a common complication of poisoning caused by toxins and various drugs. Epidemiological insights into xenobiotic-induced seizures enable emergency physicians to anticipate seizure risk during toxic exposures, optimize triage decisions, and tailor strategies. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics and essential factors related to xenobiotic-induced seizures.

METHODS

This descriptive cross-sectional study included 122 patients who developed seizures following poisoning with drugs, alcohol, opioids, pesticides, or stimulants between July 2021 and June 2022. Sociodemographic profiles and details of the poisoning/ toxic agents were collected through bedside interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 21.

RESULTS

The majority of patients were men (110, 90.2%), with a mean age of 30.5 ± 11.99 years; 61 (50%) were married, and 95 (77.9%) resided in urban areas. Suicidal poisoning was the most frequent cause (62 cases, 50.8%), followed by poisoning related to substance abuse (33 cases, 27%). Opioids particularly tramadol (75 cases, 61.5%) were the leading cause of xenobiotic-induced seizures. All patients experienced generalized tonic-clonic seizures, with 87 (71.3%) having a single episode. Significant gender and occupation-based differences were observed: suicidal poisoning was more common among women, whereas substance abuse predominated among men. Education level was also found to influence the type of poisoning agent.

CONCLUSION

Xenobiotic-induced seizures are predominantly associated with opioid poisoning, are prevalent among young males with suicidal tendencies and substance abuse. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive strategies, early identification of at-risk individuals, and improved management protocols for poisoning-related seizures.