Organic cyanides are usually called nitriles. It is obtained by acidification of cyanide salts. Hydrocyanic acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide, or HCN, is a highly volatile liquid that is produced on a large scale industrially. Soluble salts such as sodium cyanide (NaCN) and potassium cyanide (KCN) are highly toxic. In inorganic cyanides, the cyanide group is present as the cyanide anion −C≡N. This group, known as the cyano group, consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. In this article we review the available data on the sources, manifestations, and treatment of acute cyanide poisoning in children and discuss unmet needs in the management of pediatric cyanide poisoning.In chemistry, a cyanide (from Greek kyanos ' dark blue') is a chemical compound that contains a C≡N functional group. The vitamin B 12 precursor hydroxocobalamin, which has been used in Europe, may prove to be an attractive alternative to the cyanide antidote kit for pediatric patients.

A cyanide antidote with a better risk/benefit ratio than the current agent available in the United States is desirable. Because hemoglobin kinetics vary with age, methemoglobinemia associated with nitrite-based antidotes may be excessive at standard adult dosing in children. The only currently available antidote in the United States (the cyanide antidote kit) has been used successfully in children but has particular risks associated with its use in pediatric patients. The sources and manifestations of acute cyanide poisoning seem to be qualitatively similar between children and adults, but children may be more vulnerable than adults to poisoning from some sources. Because of its infrequent occurrence, medical professionals may have difficulty recognizing cyanide poisoning, confirming its presence, and treating it in pediatric patients. Confirmed cases of childhood exposure to cyanide are rare despite multiple potential sources including inhalation of fire smoke, ingestion of toxic household and workplace substances, and ingestion of cyanogenic foods.

Cyanide treatment kit