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Toxic myocarditis due to oral ingestion of hydrofluoric acid

Robert Gradinger1, Christian Jung, Dirk Reinhardt

  • 1Department of Cardiology/Internal Medicine, Friedrich Schiller University, Erlanger Allee 101, D-07747 Jena, Germany. robert.gradinger@med.uni-jena.de

Heart, Lung & Circulation
|September 8, 2007
PubMed

Insights

A man developed heart failure from hydrofluoric acid ingestion. This rare case highlights toxic myocarditis as a delayed complication, emphasizing the need for cardiac monitoring after such poisonings.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Toxicology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Hydrofluoric acid (HF) ingestion is a rare but serious poisoning with potentially severe systemic effects.
  • Cardiac complications following HF ingestion are not well-documented, especially long-term sequelae.

Observation:

  • A 32-year-old male presented with congestive heart failure and reduced global cardiac function.
  • Symptoms manifested four months after intentional oral hydrofluoric acid ingestion.

Findings:

  • Left ventricular myocardium biopsy confirmed toxic myocarditis as the cause of cardiac dysfunction.
  • This case illustrates toxic myocarditis as an uncommon, long-term complication of oral hydrofluoric acid exposure.

Implications:

  • Patients with hydrofluoric acid intoxication require diligent cardiological follow-up.
  • Early detection of cardiac deterioration is crucial for managing delayed toxicity from hydrofluoric acid.

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