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Salicylate toxicity from ingestion of traditional massage oil

Rajesh Kumar Muniandy1, Vellan Sinnathamby

  • 1Medical Based Department, School of Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. farbe63@hotmail.com

BMJ Case Reports
|August 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Accidental ingestion of methyl-salicylate containing massage oil caused salicylate toxicity in a child. Prompt intensive care unit management led to a full recovery, highlighting the importance of early recognition.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Pediatrics
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Methyl-salicylate is a common ingredient in topical massage oils for pain relief.
  • Accidental oral ingestion of these oils can lead to severe toxicity, particularly in children.

Observation:

  • A 16-month-old child presented with generalized tonic-clonic seizures and vomiting after ingesting traditional massage oil.
  • Clinical presentation was consistent with salicylate toxicity.

Findings:

  • The child required intensive care unit admission for multi-organ support due to salicylate poisoning.
  • Prompt and appropriate management resulted in the child's discharge within one week.

Implications:

  • Early recognition of methyl-salicylate poisoning is crucial for favorable patient outcomes.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential toxicity of topical products when ingested.
  • Public education regarding the safe storage and use of massage oils is recommended.

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