Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

Generation of a Rat Model of Acute Liver Failure by Combining 70% Partial Hepatectomy and Acetaminophen
Published on: November 27, 2019
Undifferentiated altered mental status: a late presentation of toxic acetaminophen ingestion
Thomas E Robey1, Edward R Melnick
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University, 464 Congress Avenue, Steuite 260, New Haven, CT 06519-1315, USA.
Abstract:
Altered mental status is a common undifferentiated presentation in the emergency department. We describe a case of acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure that was diagnosed and treated prior to obtaining definitive historical or laboratory information about the etiology. The physical exam finding of scleral icterus in this case was a key element to rapid identification and treatment of this life-threatening condition. A discussion of appropriate N-acetylcysteine treatment for acute liver failure and acetaminophen intoxication is included.
Related Concept Videos
Hepatic Encephalopathy
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Toxidromes: Clinical Features
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Drug Toxicity: Overview