Lightning strikes at a mass gathering

Author(s): Moskowitz, L., Hardel, M.

Journal/Book: South Med J. 1999; 92: 708-10.

Abstract: Among natural disasters, lightning is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. A well-informed bystander and an astute physician can make the difference between an outcome of death or lifelong disability versus complete or near-complete recovery. What is done in the first few minutes after such an event is the predominant predictor of success. This case report describes a young woman who was struck by lightning while talking on a cellular telephone at a mass gathering in an outdoor stadium. The discussion that follows the case centers on the pathophysiology of being struck by lightning and on issues unique to being struck in a stadium full of people.

Keyword(s): Adult. Burns/etiology/therapy. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/methods. Case Report. Disaster Planning. District of Columbia. Facial Injuries/etiology/therapy. Female. First Aid/methods. Human. Lightning Injuries/complications/physiopathology/therapy. Mass Behavior. Music. Primary Prevention/methods. Risk Factors. Telephone. Thoracic Injuries/etiology/therapy

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