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Published on: November 9, 2018
Delayed and prolonged coma after acute disulfiram overdose
S Lemoyne1, J Raemaekers, J Daems
1Dienst Intensieve Zorg, Sint-Augustinus, Wilrijk, Belgium.
Acta Neurologica Belgica
|November 12, 2009
Summary
Disulfiram overdose in a 35-year-old man caused prolonged coma and severe toxic encephalopathy. Symptoms included quadriparesis lasting beyond unconsciousness, highlighting disulfiram
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Disulfiram is used to deter alcohol consumption.
- Intentional overdose can lead to severe adverse effects.
- Understanding disulfiram toxicity is crucial for clinical management.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old man intentionally overdosed on disulfiram.
- He experienced delayed and prolonged coma, toxic encephalopathy, and convulsions.
- Quadriparesis persisted after the loss of consciousness.
Findings:
- Disulfiram overdose can induce severe neurological impairment.
- Symptoms include coma, seizures, and motor deficits.
- The neurological effects may be prolonged and delayed.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe neurotoxicity from disulfiram overdose.
- Prompt recognition and management of disulfiram toxicity are essential.
- Further research into the neurotoxic mechanisms of disulfiram is warranted.
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