Naphthalene

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

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

References

• Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999