Naphthalene toxicity: Methemoglobinemia and acute intravascular hemolysis
Volney, G; Tatusov, M; Yen, AC; Karamyan, N
HERO ID
5018121
Reference Type
Journal Article
Year
2018
Language
English
PMID
| HERO ID | 5018121 |
|---|---|
| In Press | No |
| Year | 2018 |
| Title | Naphthalene toxicity: Methemoglobinemia and acute intravascular hemolysis |
| Authors | Volney, G; Tatusov, M; Yen, AC; Karamyan, N |
| Journal | Cureus |
| Volume | 10 |
| Issue | 8 |
| Page Numbers | e3147 |
| Abstract | Naphthalene poisoning is a rare form of toxicity that may occur after ingestion, inhalation, or dermal exposure to naphthalene-containing compounds such as mothballs. Clinically, patients present with acute onset of dark brown urine, watery diarrhea, and non-bloody bilious vomiting 48-96 hours after exposure. Vital sign abnormalities include fever, tachycardia, hypotension, and persistent pulse oximetry readings of 84%-85% despite oxygen supplementation. Laboratory workup demonstrates hyperbilirubinemia with indirect predominance, hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, and renal dysfunction. Treatment options include supportive care, red cell transfusion, ascorbic acid, methylene blue, and N-acetylcysteine. We present a case of naphthalene toxicity in a 20-year-old autistic male, who improved with supportive care, red blood cell transfusion, and ascorbic acid. |
| Doi | 10.7759/cureus.3147 |
| Pmid | 30345203 |
| Is Certified Translation | No |
| Dupe Override | No |
| Is Public | Yes |
| Language Text | English |