Myocarditis complicating ethylene glycol poisoning in the absence of neurological features. Issue 757 (November 1988)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Denning, D. W.; Berendt, A.; Chia, Y.; Morgan, S. H.
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 64:Issue 757(1988)
• Page Start: 867
• Page End: 870
• Publication Date: 1988-11
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/pgmj.64.757.867
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract : The consequences of ethylene glycol intoxication are described in a 42 year old man who presented with a profound metabolic acidosis, cardiogenic shock and renal failure. The clinical and electrocardiographic findings suggested a myocarditis and this was confirmed by endomyocardial biopsy. The striking absence of neurological features in this patient delayed diagnosis, which was not suspected until calcium oxalate crystals were demonstrated at renal biopsy. Retrospective analysis of serum retained at his admission to hospital confirmed toxic levels of ethylene glycol. Following a period of intensive cardio-respiratory support and peritoneal dialysis he made a good recovery with cardiac and renal function returning to normal.