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Death following cupric sulfate emesis
1Department of Chemistry, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China. jtliu@mail.cmu.edu.cn
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|June 16, 2001
Summary
Cupric sulfate, used as an emetic, caused fatal copper poisoning, leading to acute hemolysis and renal failure. This highlights its danger and contraindication as a poison treatment.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Forensic Pathology
Background:
- Cupric sulfate is sometimes used as an emetic.
- Its safety and efficacy as a poison treatment are debated.
Observation:
- A 25-year-old woman ingested diazepam and was given cupric sulfate as an emetic.
- She died three days later from acute hemolysis and renal failure.
Findings:
- Autopsy revealed high copper concentrations in blood, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal contents.
- Copper poisoning was identified as the cause of death.
Implications:
- Cupric sulfate is a corrosive poison and should be contraindicated as an emetic.
- This case adds to evidence against its use in poison management.