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Naphthalene
From WikEM
Contents
Background
- Common ingredients in toilet bowl deodorizers and moth repellants (i.e. mothballs)
Mechanism of toxicity
- GI upset
- CNS stimulation
- Hemolysis (especially in G6PD deficiency)
Clinical Features
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inhalational exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation
Differential Diagnosis
Evaluation
- Clinical history
- Mothball smell around mouth
- Naphthalene is radiopaque
- Serum levels are not available
Management
- Support airway and breathing
- Treat coma and seizures as needed
- Treat hemolysis with IV hydration and alkalinization of urine
- Gut emptying and activated charcoal are usually not indicated
Disposition
References
- Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999
