Acute copper sulfate poisoning resulting from dermal absorption

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Occupational Health
• Dermatology

Background:

• Copper sulfate poisoning is typically associated with oral ingestion.
• Dermal exposure to hot copper sulfate solutions can lead to severe systemic toxicity.
• Occupational hazards in industrial settings require careful consideration of chemical exposure routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of severe systemic copper sulfate poisoning via dermal exposure.
• To highlight the potential for significant toxicity through burned skin absorption.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing unusual exposure routes in occupational settings.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 53-year-old male worker with dermal exposure to hot copper sulfate.
• Clinical assessment including laboratory tests (serum copper levels) and imaging.
• Treatment involved red blood cell transfusion and hemodialysis.

Main Results:

• The patient developed severe intravascular hemolysis with methemoglobinemia.
• Acute kidney injury, asymptomatic cerebral ischemic stroke, and gastric ulcers were observed.
• Serum copper levels were mildly elevated, but clinical toxicity was severe.
• Complete recovery was achieved after 13 hemodialysis sessions and blood transfusions.

Conclusions:

• Severe systemic copper sulfate poisoning can occur through dermal exposure, particularly via burned skin.
• Prompt and intensive medical intervention, including hemodialysis, is crucial for managing such cases.
• This case underscores the need for awareness of diverse exposure pathways in occupational toxicology.