Chlorate toxicity
Background
- Potassium Chlorate, Barium Chlorate, and Sodium Chlorate are still in use today
- Fireworks, match heads, and weed killers
Mechanism of Toxicity
- Oxidizers and attackers of sulfhydryl groups
- Cause methemoglobin formation
Clinical Presentation
- Abdominal Pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Methemoglobinemia
- Coagulopathy
Diagnosis
- Based on clinical history and presence of methemoglobinemia
- No specific levels are available
Management
- Activated charcoal IS recommended
- Methylene Blue for methemoglobinemia (1-2 mg/kg of 1% solution)
- Sodium Thiosulfate IV may inactivate chlorate ions (anecdotal)
- Hemodialysis
- Supportive Care
External Links
References
Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999.