Severe Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage in a Child after Taking an Improper Oral Rehydration Solution

Abstract

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is safe and effective for the prevention and treatment of dehydration in children. It has been commercially available as a small packaging unit that needs to be taken with a specified amount of water. Intake of incorrectly formulated ORS results in side effects, such as electrolyte imbalance and upper gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance. We experienced a case of severe GI hemorrhage from gastric and duodenal ulcers in a previously healthy child following intake of incorrectly formulated ORS. GI hemorrhage in children is often life threatening and reaching a diagnosis may be challenging. Commercially manufactured packets of powdered oral rehydration salts have been widely used and GI hemorrhage associated with an improperly diluted ORS has been rarely reported. Caution and education for proper preparation of ORS are imperative.