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Hemolytic anemia induced by ingestion of paradichlorobenzene mothballs

John J Sillery1, Richard Lichenstein, Fermin Barrueto

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Memorial Hospital, York, PA, USA.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|April 17, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Paradichlorobenzene (PDCB) mothball ingestion can cause hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia, though rarely. This case highlights potential delayed toxicity from PDCB, emphasizing the need for vigilance in pediatric toxicology.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Naphthalene mothballs are known to cause hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia.
  • Paradichlorobenzene (PDCB) mothball toxicity is less commonly reported, with few documented cases of associated hematologic adverse effects.

Observation:

  • An asymptomatic pediatric patient presented after ingesting PDCB mothballs.
  • The patient developed symptoms of hemolysis and mild methemoglobinemia three days post-ingestion.

Findings:

  • Ingestion of PDCB mothballs, while rarely associated with toxicity, can lead to delayed onset of hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia.
  • This case demonstrates a potential for delayed hematologic toxicity following PDCB exposure.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider PDCB mothball ingestion as a potential cause of hemolytic anemia and methemoglobinemia, even with delayed presentation.
  • Enhanced awareness and monitoring are crucial for pediatric patients exposed to PDCB mothballs to prevent severe complications.

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