Possible potassium chlorate nephrotoxicity associated with chronic matchstick ingestion.

Abstract

We present a case of a 48-year-old active duty male soldier with a history of chronic exposure to potassium chlorate, later diagnosed with chronic interstitial nephritis. He reported regular matchstick consumption to prevent chigger (Trombicula autumnalis) bites, amounting to ∼5.8 g of potassium chlorate over 3 years. Potassium chlorate can cause anuric renal failure within days of a toxic dose. Its slow excretion and mechanism of action suggest that renal toxicity may result from lower-dose chronic exposure. This case represents possible sequelae of chronic potassium chlorate ingestion.

• Authors: John S Thurlow, Dustin J Little, Thomas P Baker, Christina M Yuan
• Journal: Clinical kidney journal (Clin Kidney J) Vol. 6 Issue 3 Pg. 316-8 (Jun 2013) ISSN: 2048-8505 [Print] England
• PMID: 26064493 (Publication Type: Journal Article)