Infant Suffers Carbon Monoxide Poisoning In House Fire

This case involves a multi-family house that caught fire due to an electrical shortage. The fire broke out at approximately midnight and the families were trapped inside the house for a significant period of time. A 4-month-old infant was trapped in the house at the time of the fire and the infant suffered severe carbon monoxide exposure. On EMS arrival, the infant received 100% oxygen and was taken to the hospital. In spite of immediate treatment, the infant remained with significant neurological delays that negatively impacted her development.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please describe your experience treating patients that have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning.

Expert Witness Response E-001341

I have treated children exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning as part of my clinical duties as a child neurologist. I am aware that patients with elevated carbon monoxide levels in their blood should have emergent transfer to a facility that has the capabilities to provide hyberbaric oxygen treatment. I am aware of the predilection of carbon monoxide poisoning to injure the metabolically active basal ganglia structures within the central nervous system, specifically the globus pallidus. I am also aware of the consequences of carbon monoxide poisoning to survivors, which includes severe generalized dystonia as well as significant cognitive dysfunction. I have also been involved with medical-legal cases concerning children who have suffered neurological injury for the past 7 years, serving as an expert witness for both defense and plaintiff cases. I am comfortable reviewing medical records, preparing reports, performing IMEs, as well as giving both deposition and courtroom testimony.