Cyanide poisoning from propionitrile exposure.

Abstract

A 55-year-old worker was exposed to propionitrile by both the inhalational and dermal routes. He rapidly lost consciousness and developed metabolic acidosis consistent with cyanide poisoning. Treatment with hydroxycobalamin and sodium thiosulfate produced complete symptom resolution within an hour. Serial blood cyanide and thiocyanate levels documented a rapid decrease in cyanide and concomitant increase in thiocyanate. Serious cyanide poisoning can occur from propionitrile exposure. Treatment with hydroxycobalamin and sodium thiosulfate can produce rapid clinical improvement.

• Authors: C Bismuth, F J Baud, H Djeghout, A Astier, D Aubriot
• Journal: The Journal of emergency medicine (J Emerg Med) 1987 May-Jun Vol. 5 Issue 3 Pg. 191-5 ISSN: 0736-4679 [Print] United States
• PMID: 3429812 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Cyanides
• Nitriles
• Thiosulfates
• propionitrile
• sodium thiosulfate
• Hydroxocobalamin

Topics

• Cyanides (blood)
• Humans
• Hydroxocobalamin (therapeutic use)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Nitriles (poisoning)
• Occupational Diseases (chemically induced, drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Thiosulfates (therapeutic use)