Massive Acetaminophen Overdose Treated Successfully with N-Acetylcysteine, Fomepizole, and Hemodialysis

Chiu, Michael H. and Jaworska, Natalia and Li, Nicholas L. and Yarema, Mark and Gallelli, Luca (2021) Massive Acetaminophen Overdose Treated Successfully with N-Acetylcysteine, Fomepizole, and Hemodialysis. Case Reports in Critical Care, 2021. pp. 1-5. ISSN 2090-6420

[thumbnail of 6695967.pdf] Text
6695967.pdf - Published Version

Download (444kB)

Abstract

Acetaminophen overdose is one of the most common causes of acute hepatic failure in the developed world. There is strong evidence for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a safe and effective antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. However, there is less clarity in the management of massive overdoses (acute, single  mg/kg with 4-hour equivalent concentrations ~6000 μmol/L) which are often associated with metabolic acidosis and multiorgan dysfunction. In such ingestions, the role of adjuvant treatments such as fomepizole and extracorporeal removal is unclear. We present a case of a 20-year-old female presenting with an acute ingestion of over 120 grams (1764.7 mg/kg) and an acetaminophen concentration of 5880 μmol/L who developed refractory shock, decreased level of consciousness, and metabolic acidosis requiring mechanical ventilation and vasopressor support. She was treated with gastric decontamination with activated charcoal, IV NAC, fomepizole, and hemodialysis. The patient had complete clearance of acetaminophen by 32 hours after presentation and normalization of her acid base and hemodynamic status without any organ failure. This case highlights the potential benefit of a triple strategy of NAC, fomepizole, and early hemodialysis in massive acetaminophen overdose, potentially sparing complications of prolonged intubation and ICU hospitalization.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: SCI Archives > Medical Science
Depositing User: Managing Editor
Date Deposited: 26 Nov 2022 04:19
Last Modified: 22 Jul 2024 06:33
URI: http://science.classicopenlibrary.com/id/eprint/387

Actions (login required)

View Item
View Item