In the case of carbon monoxide death in children, what percentage is typically considered fatal?

In carbon monoxide poisoning, the fatality rate often varies based on several factors, including the level of exposure and the individual's health condition. For children, a carboxyhemoglobin percentage (the measure of carbon monoxide levels in the blood) of 20-30% is recognized as potentially fatal. This range is particularly critical because children may be more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide due to their smaller body size and higher metabolic rates, which can lead to faster accumulation of the toxin in their bloodstream.

At levels below this range, while there may be serious health implications and risk of significant morbidity, fatalities are less common. Conversely, higher levels like 30-40% and above can increase the risk of severe outcomes, but the typical medical threshold for considering a case as lethal in children is often cited as being within the 20-30% range. This classification helps in guiding medical treatment and interventions for pediatric patients presenting with signs of carbon monoxide exposure.