Severe central nervous system damage and profound acidosis in persons exposed to pentaborane.

Abstract

Three cases of pentaborane intoxication resulting from a common exposure are presented. These cases were characterized by the rapid onset of seizures and opisthotonic spasms accompanied by severe metabolic acidosis without respiratory compensation. Rhabdomyolysis occurred, serum transaminase levels were elevated, and liver damage was demonstrated histologically. One patient died and another sustained severe neurologic damage. These poisonings are unique with respect to the rapid and devastating neurologic consequences. Pentaborane is an extremely toxic compound and a major hazard not only to exposed workers but also to the medical personnel dealing with them.

• Authors: B E Yarbrough, L K Garrettson, D I Zolet, K R Cooper, A B Kelleher, M H Steele
• Journal: Journal of toxicology. Clinical toxicology (J Toxicol Clin Toxicol) 1985-1986 Vol. 23 Issue 7-8 Pg. 519-36 ISSN: 0731-3810 [Print] United States
• PMID: 3938486 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Boranes
• Lactates
• Carbon Dioxide
• pentaborane
• Oxygen

Topics

• Acidosis (chemically induced)
• Adult
• Boranes (poisoning)
• Carbon Dioxide (blood)
• Central Nervous System (pathology)
• Humans
• Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
• Lactates (blood)
• Liver (pathology)
• Male
• Occupational Diseases (chemically induced)
• Oxygen (blood)
• Partial Pressure
• Poisoning (blood)
• Seizures (chemically induced)
• Spasm (chemically induced)
• Time Factors