Severe hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, acidosis, and shock in a 5-month-old child following the administration of an adult fleet® enema

We report the case of a 5-month-old girl who was given an adult Fleet ® enema by her mother because of her concern that the baby was constipated. Within minutes the child became extremely ill. She developed shock, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and acidosis. This case is presented to demonstrate that life-threatening events may result after the injudicious use of enemas in children.