Long-term sequelae of lightning strike in a child: A case report and review

Although a lightning strike is a rare occurrence, the pediatric emergency physician and the primary care provider should be aware of all possible long-term sequelae that young victims may face because these patients and their parents will seek relief after hospital discharge. Parents need to be warned that along with suffering from side effects of damaged organ systems, the child may experience prolonged severe muscular pain of unknown etiology. The parents of the 10-year-old girl in this present case report were knowledgeable about her cardiac damage and prepared to have cardiology follow-up, but were most distressed about the unexpected persistent agonizing arm pain that their daughter experienced after hospital discharge. Because some sequelae can take several months to years to resolve, it has to be emphasized to parents that many specialists, including psychiatrists and physical therapists, may need to provide ongoing care for the child. Lightning strike victims and families can also be educated about the availability of support networks such as Lightning Strike and Electric Shock Survivors International, Inc (LSESSI, Inc.).