Description Ethylene glycol is ...
Description
Ethylene glycol is a solvent found in products ranging from antifreeze fluid and de-icing solutions to carpet and fabric cleaners. Ingestion causes transformation of the ethylene glycol into toxic byproducts that damage the kidneys and brain. If untreated the disorder can be fatal. These ingestions are usually intentional, where ethylene glycol is used as a substitute for alcohol. (This is usually in the setting of severe alcoholism.)
Symptoms
Confusion, ataxia, hallucinations, slurred speech, coma, vomiting, hyperventilation, seizures, breathing problems, heart failure.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made based on the history and the initial testing of the body's blood chemistry. The first clue to this poisoning is a change in a blood test called the serum "osmolarity". Ethylene glycol can be detected in the blood if this poisoning is suspected.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA)
Other Specific Tests: Ethylene glycol level, ethanol and toxic alcohol levels (ethylene glycol, methanol)
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made based on the history and the initial testing of the body's blood chemistry. The first clue to this poisoning is a change in a blood test called the serum "osmolarity". Ethylene glycol can be detected in the blood if this poisoning is suspected.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA)
Other Specific Tests: Ethylene glycol level, ethanol and toxic alcohol levels (ethylene glycol, methanol)
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Treatment
Intravenous fluids and support of the cardiorespiratory status of the patient is essential. Seizures are treated with benzodiazepines. Fomepizole is administered to decrease the conversion of ethylene glycol into toxic metabolites. Kidney dialysis is performed to correct severe metabolic derangements, remove the toxic metabolites and the ethylene glycol.