Naphthalene

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Background

  • Common ingredients in toilet bowl deodorizers and moth repellants

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
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