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Isopropanol ingestion: case report with pharmacokinetic analysis
1Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland 04102.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|May 1, 1989
Summary
This case report details an acute isopropanol overdose, tracking isopropanol and acetone levels for 43 hours. Early hemodialysis decisions are crucial due to the rapid isopropanol pharmacokinetic profile.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) is a common disinfectant and solvent.
- Acute overdose can lead to significant central nervous system (CNS) depression and metabolic disturbances.
Observation:
- An unusual case of acute isopropanol overdose occurred within an emergency department setting.
- Serial serum concentrations of isopropanol and its metabolite, acetone, were monitored over 43 hours.
Findings:
- Central nervous system toxicity correlated directly with isopropanol serum concentrations.
- The calculated elimination half-life of isopropanol was determined to be 7.3 hours.
- Pharmacokinetic analysis revealed a rapid clearance profile for isopropanol.
Implications:
- Management decisions, particularly concerning hemodialysis, should be made promptly, ideally within 1-2 hours of patient presentation.
- Understanding the pharmacokinetic profile is vital for effective treatment of isopropanol toxicity.
- This case highlights the importance of rapid assessment and intervention in isopropanol overdose cases.