Iodoform toxicity following the use of B.I.P.P.: a potential hazard

1. A case of severe iodoform toxicity is presented in a patient after a total maxillectomy whose cavity was packed with B.I.P.P. The patient subsequently recovered after removal of the B.I.P.P. pack. 2. A simple spectrophotometric method for measuring plasma iodine concentration is described. Plasma iodine determinations were carried out on the toxic patient and three others with iodoform containing packs. The concentrations found correspond well with the presence or absence of iodoform toxicity. 3. From the clinical and biochemical evidence presented we suggest that B.I.P.P. gauze is a satisfactory packing for small operative cavities, but that caution should be exercised if large cavities, such as those following maxillectomies, are to be packed with the material. Another iodoform containing mixture, Whitehead's varnish, is a safer alternative to B.I.P.P. gauze.