[Therapy-induced lindane concentration in breast milk].

Abstract

Reactions induced by neurotoxic effects with lindane (gamma-hexachlorcyclohexane) after treatment of infants have been reported by different authors. This has led to controversial discussions as to the indication for therapy with lindane in early infancy. To our knowledge there are to date no published reports on the concentration of lindane in mother's milk after local scabies therapy. In a mother treated with lindane for scabies we found elevated levels of lindane in the mother's milk. Compared to average levels of lindane in mother's milk (0.03 ppm, milk-fat) there was a 30-fold increase after three-day treatment and a 66-fold elevation after an additional one-day treatment with lindane. The problems arising and alternative therapy are discussed.