T52.3X1

Clinical Causes: Accidental ingestion of antifreeze or coolant containing ethylene glycol or propylene glycol Accidental inhalation of vapors in poorly ventilated areas during manufacturing or cleaning processes Accidental skin contact with glycol-containing substances during handling or spills Use of contaminated drinking water or food products containing glycols Children mistaking sweet-tasting antifreeze for a beverage

Key Symptoms: Initial symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain Central nervous system effects such as dizziness, confusion, and headache Respiratory issues like shortness of breath or rapid breathing Metabolic disturbances including acidosis (increased acidity in the blood) Signs of kidney damage or failure in severe cases In advanced stages, seizures, coma, or even death may occur

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing glycol poisoning involves a combination of patient history, clinical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood tests may reveal metabolic acidosis, elevated levels of glycol metabolites, or kidney dysfunction. Urinalysis can also detect glycol crystals or other indicators of toxicity. Imaging studies are rarely needed but may assist in assessing organ damage in complicated cases.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment focuses on preventing further absorption of the toxin, correcting metabolic imbalances, and supporting organ function. Common interventions include: - Administration of activated charcoal to limit absorption if ingestion was recent - Use of fomepizole or ethanol to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing glycols into toxic compounds - Hemodialysis to remove glycol and its metabolites from the bloodstream in severe poisoning cases - Supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, correction of acid-base disturbances, and monitoring of kidney function - Symptomatic management of nausea, vomiting, and neurological effects Early medical intervention significantly improves outcomes in glycol poisoning cases.