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Disseminated intravascular coagulation and hepatocellular necrosis due to clove oil
S A Brown1, J Biggerstaff, G F Savidge
1Haemophilia Centre, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.
Insights
Clove oil ingestion caused disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and liver necrosis in a child. Specialized treatment with heparin, plasma, and factor concentrates successfully managed the condition, showing a viable approach for DIC with liver failure.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Hematology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Clove oil, a common essential oil, can be toxic if ingested.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious condition involving abnormal blood clotting.
- Hepatocellular necrosis indicates severe liver cell damage.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old child ingested clove oil, leading to DIC and hepatocellular necrosis.
- The patient presented with severe coagulopathy and liver dysfunction.
Findings:
- Treatment involved heparin and fresh frozen plasma.
- Hemostasis assays guided the administration of specific coagulation factor and inhibitor concentrates.
- This targeted approach successfully corrected the coagulation abnormalities and supported liver function.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential dangers of essential oil ingestion in children.
- It demonstrates an effective management strategy for DIC complicated by liver failure.
- The findings underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis and tailored coagulation support.
Abstract:
We describe the case of a 2-year-old child who suffered from disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and hepatocellular necrosis, following ingestion of clove oil. The patient was treated with heparin and fresh frozen plasma, and, following specific haemostasis assays, with appropriate coagulation factor and inhibitor concentrates. The case demonstrates how this approach can be successfully used in the management of DIC with coexisting liver failure.