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Leonard JB, Minhaj FS, Erickson K, King J. Fomepizole use reported to United States Poison Centers from 2010 to 2021. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2024; 62:120-125. [PMID: 38465690 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2024.2319863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of toxic alcohol poisoning is often based on clinical presentation and nonspecific surrogate laboratory studies due to limited testing availability. Fomepizole is the recommended antidote and often administered empirically. The objective of this study is to identify substances that mimic toxic alcohols and compare key clinical factors between toxic alcohol and non-toxic alcohol exposures when fomepizole was administered. METHODS This study was a retrospective evaluation using the National Poison Data System from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2021. Exposures were included if fomepizole was administered. Toxic alcohol exposures had ethylene glycol or methanol as a coded substance. For exposures not coded as a toxic alcohol, the first substance was described. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) exposures from 2020 and 2021 were excluded. RESULTS Fomepizole was reportedly used 25,110 times over 12 years. Use increased from 1,955 in 2010 to 2,710 in 2021. Most administrations were for reported toxic alcohol poisoning (60 percent) but use in reported non-toxic alcohol poisoning was greater starting in 2020. Toxic alcohol exposures were older (43.3 versus 39.8 years; P < 0.001) and more likely male (65.7 percent versus 58.2 percent). Level of care was mostly a critical care unit (67.7 percent), which was less common in toxic alcohol (63.3 percent) than non-toxic alcohol exposures (74.2 percent). The most common non-toxic alcohol substances were ethanol (24.9 percent) or an unknown drug (17.5 percent). Acidosis, increased creatinine concentration, anion gap, and osmolal gap, and kidney failure were coded in a lower proportion of toxic alcohol exposures than non-toxic alcohol exposures (P < 0.001). DISCUSSION The inability to provide rapid clinical confirmation of toxic alcohol poisoning results in the empiric administration of fomepizole to many patients who will ultimately have other diagnoses. Although fomepizole is relative well tolerated we estimated that this practice costs between $1.5 to $2.5 million. The major limitations of this work include the biases associated with retrospective record review, and the inability to confirm the exposures which may have resulted in allocation error. CONCLUSION Most fomepizole use was for a presumed toxic alcohol. This recently shifted to greater use in likely non-toxic alcohol poisoning. Key difference between the groups suggest fomepizole administration was likely due to the difficulty in diagnosis of toxic alcohol poisoning along with the efficacy and safety of fomepizole. Increased toxic alcohol laboratory testing availability could improve timely diagnosis, reserving fomepizole use for toxic alcohol poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B Leonard
- Maryland Poison Center, Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Kennedy Erickson
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Joshua King
- Maryland Poison Center, Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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2
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Filip AB, Farnsworth CW, Mullins ME, Crews BO, Kraut JA. Accuracy of a Glycerol Dehydrogenase Assay for Ethylene Glycol Detection. J Med Toxicol 2023; 19:362-367. [PMID: 37695470 PMCID: PMC10522546 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-023-00967-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ethylene glycol (EG) is a frequently considered toxicant in poisoned patients. Definitive diagnosis relies on gas chromatography (GC), but this is unavailable at most hospitals. A glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH)-based assay rapidly detects EG. A rapid turnaround time and wide availability of necessary instrumentation suggest this method could facilitate the rapid detection of EG. METHODS This is a prospective, observational analysis of banked, remnant serum samples submitted to the laboratory of a large, multi-hospital healthcare system. Samples were submitted over a 12-month period for the explicit purpose of testing for suspected EG ingestion. All samples underwent GC and the GDH-based assay. RESULTS Of the 118 analyzed samples, 88 had no EG detected by GC, and 30 were "positive." At the manufacturer's threshold of 6 mg/dL EG, there was 100% (95%CI; 88.7-100) positive percent agreement (PPA) and 98% (92.1-99.6) negative percent agreement (NPA). Adjusted to a threshold of 9 mg/dL, both the PPA and NPA were 100%. Deming regression of the observed concentrations revealed a slope of 1.16 (1.01 to 1.32) and intercept of -5.3 (-8.9 to -1.7). CONCLUSIONS The GDH assay provides a sensitive and specific method for the detection and quantification of EG that is comparable to a GC-based method. More widespread use of this rapid, inexpensive assay could improve the care of patients with suspected toxic alcohol exposure. Further study is needed to evaluate the test performance in real-time patient treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari B Filip
- Arkansas Poison and Drug Information Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| | - Christopher W Farnsworth
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael E Mullins
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bridgit O Crews
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Kraut
- Medical and Research Services, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA; UCLA Membrane Biology Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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3
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Burkholder NJ, Sweet LM, Kelly EL. From Toxic Ingestion to Cancer: Dramatic Acidosis as a Myeloma-Defining Event. Cureus 2023; 15:e38542. [PMID: 37273360 PMCID: PMC10239262 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney failure has myriad causes and presentations. This is a case of an individual with a history of alcohol abuse and a previous suicide attempt presenting with acute kidney failure and altered mentation accompanied by an anion gap metabolic acidosis with an elevated osmolar gap. These findings were concerning for toxic alcohol ingestion, but the patient was ultimately diagnosed with multiple myeloma. This case demonstrates the multiple factors that can impact both the anion and osmolar gaps. It shows that the traditionally held dogma about the meaning of anion or osmolar gaps may cloud an otherwise more obscure etiology. It illustrates a dramatic presentation of acute myeloma, for which early recognition is essential to initiate appropriate chemotherapy for a chance at preservation of renal function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren M Sweet
- Internal Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, USA
| | - Erin L Kelly
- Critical Care, University of Rochester, Rochester, USA
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4
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Liontos A, Samanidou V, Athanasiou L, Filippas-Ntekouan S, Milionis C. Acute Ethanol Intoxication: Αn Overlooked Cause of High Anion Gap Metabolic Acidosis With a Marked Increase in Serum Osmolal Gap. Cureus 2023; 15:e37292. [PMID: 37168210 PMCID: PMC10166247 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Measurement of serum osmolal gap is a useful tool in suspected toxic alcohol ingestion. Normal levels of osmolal gap are typically <10 mOsm/kg). Osmolal gap >20 mOsm/kg is usually caused by ingestion of methanol, ethylene glycol, isopropanol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, or organic solvents such as acetone but rarely of ethanol alone. Herein, we describe the case of a severe ethanol intoxication presenting with a marked increase in the osmolal gap. An 18-year-old male was referred to the emergency department of our hospital, in a comatose state, following binge drinking. blood gas analysis revealed a high anion gap metabolic acidosis. In addition, it was found an extremely elevated osmolal gap of 91 mOsm/kg. The increment of the osmolal gap and the high anion gap acidosis could not be attributed to methanol/ethylene glycol intoxication, alcoholic ketoacidosis, or other cause of acidosis. The calculated osmolal concentration of ethanol was 91 mOsm/kg (osmolal concentration of ethanol is equal to the serum ethanol levels (mg/dL) divided by 3.7). Thus, the increase in the osmolal gap was a result of ethanol intoxication solely. Acute, isolated, ethanol intoxication may be a rare cause of a marked increase of osmolal gap with high anion gap metabolic acidosis. Clinicians should be alerted to the possibility of acute ethanol intoxication in a patient presenting with high anion gap metabolic acidosis and an extremely elevated osmolal gap. Toxicologic screen tests should be performed to identify the aetiology of the gap rise and proper therapy should be administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelos Liontos
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Valentini Samanidou
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Lazaros Athanasiou
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Sebastien Filippas-Ntekouan
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
| | - Charalambos Milionis
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, GRC
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Ghannoum M, Gosselin S, Hoffman RS, Lavergne V, Mégarbane B, Hassanian-Moghaddam H, Rif M, Kallab S, Bird S, Wood DM, Roberts DM, Anseeuw K, Berling I, Bouchard J, Bunchman TE, Calello DP, Chin PK, Doi K, Galvao T, Goldfarb DS, Hoegberg LCG, Kebede S, Kielstein JT, Lewington A, Li Y, Macedo EM, MacLaren R, Mowry JB, Nolin TD, Ostermann M, Peng A, Roy JP, Shepherd G, Vijayan A, Walsh SJ, Wong A, Yates C. Extracorporeal treatment for ethylene glycol poisoning: systematic review and recommendations from the EXTRIP workgroup. Crit Care 2023; 27:56. [PMID: 36765419 PMCID: PMC9921105 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-022-04227-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethylene glycol (EG) is metabolized into glycolate and oxalate and may cause metabolic acidemia, neurotoxicity, acute kidney injury (AKI), and death. Historically, treatment of EG toxicity included supportive care, correction of acid-base disturbances and antidotes (ethanol or fomepizole), and extracorporeal treatments (ECTRs), such as hemodialysis. With the wider availability of fomepizole, the indications for ECTRs in EG poisoning are debated. We conducted systematic reviews of the literature following published EXTRIP methods to determine the utility of ECTRs in the management of EG toxicity. The quality of the evidence and the strength of recommendations, either strong ("we recommend") or weak/conditional ("we suggest"), were graded according to the GRADE approach. A total of 226 articles met inclusion criteria. EG was assessed as dialyzable by intermittent hemodialysis (level of evidence = B) as was glycolate (Level of evidence = C). Clinical data were available for analysis on 446 patients, in whom overall mortality was 18.7%. In the subgroup of patients with a glycolate concentration ≤ 12 mmol/L (or anion gap ≤ 28 mmol/L), mortality was 3.6%; in this subgroup, outcomes in patients receiving ECTR were not better than in those who did not receive ECTR. The EXTRIP workgroup made the following recommendations for the use of ECTR in addition to supportive care over supportive care alone in the management of EG poisoning (very low quality of evidence for all recommendations): i) Suggest ECTR if fomepizole is used and EG concentration > 50 mmol/L OR osmol gap > 50; or ii) Recommend ECTR if ethanol is used and EG concentration > 50 mmol/L OR osmol gap > 50; or iii) Recommend ECTR if glycolate concentration is > 12 mmol/L or anion gap > 27 mmol/L; or iv) Suggest ECTR if glycolate concentration 8-12 mmol/L or anion gap 23-27 mmol/L; or v) Recommend ECTR if there are severe clinical features (coma, seizures, or AKI). In most settings, the workgroup recommends using intermittent hemodialysis over other ECTRs. If intermittent hemodialysis is not available, CKRT is recommended over other types of ECTR. Cessation of ECTR is recommended once the anion gap is < 18 mmol/L or suggested if EG concentration is < 4 mmol/L. The dosage of antidotes (fomepizole or ethanol) needs to be adjusted during ECTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Ghannoum
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Research Center, CIUSSS du Nord-de-l’île-de-Montréal, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada ,grid.137628.90000 0004 1936 8753Nephrology Division, NYU Langone Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY USA ,grid.5477.10000000120346234Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie Gosselin
- grid.420748.d0000 0000 8994 4657Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CISSS) de la Montérégie-Centre Emergency Department, Hôpital Charles-Lemoyne, Greenfield Park, QC Canada ,grid.86715.3d0000 0000 9064 6198Faculté de Médecine et Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada ,Centre Antipoison du Québec, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Robert S. Hoffman
- grid.137628.90000 0004 1936 8753Division of Medical Toxicology, Ronald O. Perelman Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY USA
| | - Valery Lavergne
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Research Center, CIUSSS du Nord-de-l’île-de-Montréal, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Bruno Mégarbane
- grid.411296.90000 0000 9725 279XDepartment of Medical and Toxicological Critical Care, Lariboisière Hospital, INSERM UMRS-1144, Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Hossein Hassanian-Moghaddam
- grid.411600.2Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,grid.411600.2Department of Clinical Toxicology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Siba Kallab
- grid.411323.60000 0001 2324 5973Department of Internal Medicine-Division of Nephrology, Lebanese American University - School of Medicine, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Steven Bird
- Department of Emergency Medicine, U Mass Memorial Health, U Mass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
| | - David M. Wood
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Clinical Toxicology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s Health Partners, and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Darren M. Roberts
- grid.430417.50000 0004 0640 6474New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW Australia ,grid.413249.90000 0004 0385 0051Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
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6
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Martinez Manzano JM, Elkholy KO, Lo KB. Brain MRI abnormalities in acute ethylene glycol poisoning: a case report. TOXICOLOGY COMMUNICATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/24734306.2022.2087019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Manuel Martinez Manzano
- Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Karim O. Elkholy
- Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kevin Bryan Lo
- Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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7
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Coucke W, Charlier C, Croes K, Mahieu B, Neels H, Stove C, Tytgat J, Vanescote A, Verstraete AG, Wille S, Capron A. Analytical performance of eight enzymatic assays for ethanol in serum evaluated by data from the Belgian external quality assessment scheme. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:1211-1217. [PMID: 35670112 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fast and reliable ethanol assays analysis are used in a clinical context for patients suspected of ethanol intoxication. Mostly, automated systems using an enzymatic reaction based on ethanol dehydrogenase are used. The manuscript focusses on the evaluation of the performance of these assays. METHODS Data included 30 serum samples used in the Belgian EQA scheme from 2019 to 2021 and concentrations ranged from 0.13 to 3.70 g/L. A regression line between target concentrations and reported values was calculated to evaluate outliers, bias, variability and measurement uncertainty. RESULTS A total of 1,611 results were taken into account. Bias was the highest for Alinity c over the whole concentration range and the lowest for Vitros for low concentrations and Cobas 8000 using the c702 module for high concentrations. The Architect and Cobas c501/c502 systems showed the lowest variability over the whole concentration range. Highest variability was observed for Cobas 8000 using the 702 module, Thermo Scientific and Alinity c. Cobas 8000 using the c702 module showed the highest measurement uncertainty for lower concentrations. For higher concentrations, Alinity c, Thermo Scientific and Vitros were the methods with the highest measurement uncertainty. CONCLUSIONS The bias of the enzymatic techniques is nearly negligible for all methods except Alinity c. Variability differs strongly between measurement procedures. This study shows that the Alinity c has a worse measurement uncertainty than other systems for concentrations above 0.5 g/L. Overall, we found the differences in measurement uncertainty to be mainly influenced by the differences in variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Coucke
- Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium.,Quality of Laboratories, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Corinne Charlier
- Laboratoire de Toxicologie clinique, Tour II+5, CHU Sart Tilman, Liege 1, Belgium
| | | | | | - Hugo Neels
- Universiteit Antwerpen Campus Drie Eiken, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | - Jan Tytgat
- KU Leuven Biomedical Sciences Group, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | | | - Alain G Verstraete
- Laboratory of Clinical Biology-Toxicology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Wille
- National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology Laboratory of Toxicology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Capron
- Quality of Laboratories, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
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8
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Ross JA, Borek HA, Holstege CP, King JD. Toxic Alcohol Poisoning. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2022; 40:327-341. [DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2022.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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9
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Kuusela E, Järvisalo MJ, Hellman T, Uusalo P. Mortality and associated risk factors in patients with severe methanol or ethylene glycol poisoning treated with dialysis: a retrospective cohort study. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221081427. [PMID: 35209742 PMCID: PMC8891871 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221081427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the initial clinical course and data on 90-day mortality in adults with methanol (MET) or ethylene glycol (EG) poisoning treated with dialysis. Methods Data on patient demographics and clinical parameters at intensive care unit (ICU) admission and for the first 24 hours after dialysis initiation were collected, and 90-day outcome data were collected for patients with MET (n = 15) or EG (n = 13) poisoning treated with dialysis in this retrospective cohort study. Results In univariate analysis, patients with EG poisoning were older and they had lower hourly urine output during the first 24 hours after the initiation of dialysis. Six (46%) patients with MET poisoning and three (20%) patients with EG poisoning died within 90 days of ICU admission. A larger anion gap and lower pH, bicarbonate levels, base excess, and Glasgow Coma Scale scores on admission, as well as the need for mechanical ventilation, were associated with 90-day mortality. Conclusions Metabolic acidosis, a large anion gap, and an altered mental status on admission appear to be associated with mortality in MET or EG poisoning, and EG poisoning may be linked to lower urine output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kuusela
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Mikko J Järvisalo
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Perioperative Services, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Tapio Hellman
- Kidney Center, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Panu Uusalo
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Perioperative Services, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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10
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Atluri P, Vasireddy D, Malayala SV. Toxic Alcohol Ingestion: A Case Report and Review of Management Pathways. Cureus 2021; 13:e13092. [PMID: 33728115 PMCID: PMC7934107 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxic alcohol ingestion can be fatal or produce irreversible tissue damage and hence timely recognition and treatment are very important. The physician has to often rely on clinical features and different lab values in order to derive the possible causative agent consumed. Gas chromatography is the definitive diagnostic test to detect the toxic alcohol but is unfortunately not available to run in house in most hospital laboratories in the acute clinical setting. We present a 41-year-old gentleman who was brought to the ED for further evaluation of vomiting and upper abdominal pain. Our clinical impression was that the patient had possible mixed toxic alcohol ingestion. General principles and treatment of alcohol intoxication include gastric lavage or use of activated charcoal. Administration of ethanol or fomepizole to delay or prevent generation of toxic metabolites needs to be initiated while sufficient alcohol remains and metabolized and measurement of blood alcohol concentrations and/or serum osmolality can be helpful. Dialysis is helpful in removing unmetabolized alcohol and possibly toxic metabolites and delivering base to patients to ameliorate metabolic acidosis.
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11
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van den Broek J, Bischof D, Derron N, Abegg S, Gerber PA, Güntner AT, Pratsinis SE. Screening Methanol Poisoning with a Portable Breath Detector. Anal Chem 2021; 93:1170-1178. [PMID: 33315383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c04230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Methanol poisoning outbreaks after consumption of adulterated alcohol frequently overwhelm health care facilities in developing countries. Here, we present how a recently developed low-cost and handheld breath detector can serve as a noninvasive and rapid diagnostic tool for methanol poisoning. The detector combines a separation column and a micromachined chemoresistive gas sensor fully integrated into a device that communicates wirelessly with a smartphone. The performance of the detector is validated with methanol-spiked breath of 20 volunteers (105 breath samples) after consumption of alcoholic beverages. Breath methanol concentrations were quantified accurately within 2 min in the full breath-relevant range (10-1000 ppm) in excellent agreement (R2 = 0.966) with benchtop mass spectrometry. Bland-Altman analysis revealed sufficient limits of agreement (95% confidence intervals), promising to indicate reliably the clinical need for antidote and hemodialysis treatment. This simple-in-use detector features high diagnostic capability for accurate measurement of methanol in spiked breath, promising for rapid screening of methanol poisoning and assessment of severity. It can be applied readily by first responders to distinguish methanol from ethanol poisoning and monitor in real time the subsequent hospital treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan van den Broek
- Particle Technology Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dario Bischof
- Particle Technology Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Derron
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Abegg
- Particle Technology Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philipp A Gerber
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas T Güntner
- Particle Technology Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sotiris E Pratsinis
- Particle Technology Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Greene HR, Krasowski MD. Data on the relationship between acetone, ethylene glycol, isopropanol, methanol, and propylene glycol serum/plasma concentrations and osmolal gaps in patients at an academic medical center. Data Brief 2020; 29:105189. [PMID: 32055668 PMCID: PMC7005488 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2020.105189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Ingestion of toxic alcohols other than ethanol (ethylene glycol, methanol, isopropanol, and propylene glycol) can cause life-threatening complications including altered level of consciousness, respiratory depression, and organ damage from metabolites. Many hospitals lack the ability to specifically analyze these compounds using gas chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, or by enzymatic assays for ethylene glycol. Consequently, the presence of these compounds in blood is often ascertained indirectly by laboratory testing for acid-base status, osmolal gap, and anion gap. In the related research article, we analyzed 260 samples originating from 158 unique patients that had osmolal gap and specific testing for toxic alcohols performed on serum/plasma at an academic medical center central clinical laboratory. The data in this article provide the patient demographic, osmolal gap (and associated laboratory tests needed for this calculation), ethanol concentration by enzymatic assay, specific testing for toxic alcohols (ethylene glycol, isopropanol, methanol, propylene glycol) and acetone, anion gap, clinical history, antidotal treatment, and estimated timing of ingestion. The analyzed data is provided in the supplementary tables included in this article. Bias plots of osmolal gap estimations are included in a figure. The dataset reported is related to the research article entitled "Correlation of Osmolal Gap with Measured Concentrations of Acetone, Ethylene Glycol, Isopropanol, Methanol, and Propylene Glycol in Patients at an Academic Medical Center" [1].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew D. Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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13
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Kar E, Kocatürk E, Küskü Kiraz Z, Demiryürek B, Alataş İÖ. Comparison of measured and calculated osmolality levels. Clin Exp Nephrol 2020; 24:444-449. [DOI: 10.1007/s10157-020-01848-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Krasowski MD. Educational Case: Ethylene Glycol Poisoning. Acad Pathol 2020; 7:2374289519900330. [PMID: 31984224 PMCID: PMC6961139 DOI: 10.1177/2374289519900330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The following fictional case is intended as a learning tool within the Pathology
Competencies for Medical Education (PCME), a set of national standards for teaching
pathology. These are divided into three basic competencies: Disease Mechanisms and
Processes, Organ System Pathology, and Diagnostic Medicine and Therapeutic Pathology.
For additional information, and a full list of learning objectives for all three
competencies, seehttp://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2374289517715040.1
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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15
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Greene HR, Krasowski MD. Correlation of osmolal gap with measured concentrations of acetone, ethylene glycol, isopropanol, methanol, and propylene glycol in patients at an academic medical center. Toxicol Rep 2019; 7:81-88. [PMID: 31908969 PMCID: PMC6939068 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ingestion of toxic alcohols including methanol, ethylene glycol, and isopropanol remains a significant public health problem. These compounds can cause central nervous system depression and, for methanol and ethylene glycol, organ damage from toxic metabolites. The presence of these compounds in serum/plasma can often be determined and monitored by measuring the osmolal gap (OG). However, other compounds originating from endogenous or exogenous sources, such as propylene glycol and acetone, can also increase the OG. Conversion factors can be used to estimate specific concentrations of acetone and toxic alcohols from OG. In this retrospective study, data were analyzed for 260 samples originating from 158 unique patients that had determination of both OG and concentrations for toxic alcohols at an academic medical center central laboratory. Specific analysis included gas chromatography (acetone, isopropanol, methanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol) and/or enzymatic assay (ethylene glycol). Many samples also contained ethanol. The data was grouped by type of ingestion. The present study analyzed the relationship between the OG calculated from measured plasma/serum osmolality and the OG estimated by applying conversion factors to measured concentrations of the different compounds. The correlations tend to be linear and vary by compound, with methanol and ethylene glycol having the highest R2 values of 0.93 and 0.95, respectively, consistent with other published studies. Higher variability was seen for the data for isopropanol and acetone. For each of the data subsets, the estimated toxic alcohol concentration calculated using conversion factors from OG tends to overestimate the actual concentration of the compound. Overall, the present study demonstrates the generally linear relationship between OG determined by osmolality and the OG estimated using measured concentrations of acetone and toxic alcohols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew D. Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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16
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Pedersen DS, Bélanger P, Frykman M, Andreasen K, Goudreault D, Pedersen H, Hindersson P, Breindahl T. Ethylene glycol: Evidence of glucuronidation in vivoshown by analysis of clinical toxicology samples. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:1094-1108. [PMID: 30845374 PMCID: PMC6767423 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In the search for improved laboratory methods for the diagnosis of ethylene glycol poisoning, the in vivo formation of a glucuronide metabolite of ethylene glycol was hypothesized. Chemically pure standards of the β‐O‐glucuronide of ethylene glycol (EG‐GLUC) and a deuterated analog (d4‐EG‐GLUC) were synthesized. A high‐performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry method for determination of EG‐GLUC in serum after ultrafiltration was validated. Inter‐assay precision (%RSD) was 3.9% to 15.1% and inter‐assay %bias was −2.8% to 12.2%. The measuring range was 2–100 μmol/L (0.48–24 mg/L). Specificity testing showed no endogenous amounts in routine clinical samples (n = 40). The method was used to analyze authentic, clinical serum samples (n = 31) from patients intoxicated with ethylene glycol. EG‐GLUC was quantified in 15 of these samples, with a mean concentration of 6.5 μmol/L (1.6 mg/L), ranging from 2.3 to 15.6 μmol/L (0.55 to 3.7 mg/L). In five samples, EG‐GLUC was detected below the limit of quantification (2 μmol/L) and it was below the limit of detection in 11 samples (1 μmol/L). Compared to the millimolar concentrations of ethylene glycol present in blood after intoxications and potentially available for conjugation, the concentrations of EG‐GLUC found in clinical serum samples are very low, but comparable to concentrations of ethyl glucuronide after medium dose ethanol intake. In theory, EG‐GLUC has a potential value as a biomarker for ethylene glycol intake, but the pharmacokinetic properties, in vivo/vitro stability and the biosynthetic pathways of EG‐GLUC must be further studied in a larger number of patients and other biological matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sejer Pedersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Patrick Bélanger
- Centre de Toxicologie du Québec (CTQ)Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec (INSPQ), Québec Québec Canada
| | - Mikael Frykman
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Kirsten Andreasen
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryNorth Denmark Regional Hospital Hjørring Denmark
| | - Danielle Goudreault
- Laboratory of Specialized Biochemistry, Department of Clinical BiochemistryOptilab Montréal CHUM, building CHU Ste‐Justine, Montréal Quebec Canada
| | | | - Peter Hindersson
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryNorth Denmark Regional Hospital Hjørring Denmark
| | - Torben Breindahl
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryNorth Denmark Regional Hospital Hjørring Denmark
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17
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Abstract
Context: 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) is a gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) analogue with a similarly narrow therapeutic window that is becoming a more common cause of recreational overdose. Reports of confirmed exposures are limited.Case details: A 44 year-old man who had consumed alcohol subsequently became unconscious after ingesting what was thought to be GHB. The presentation was not entirely consistent with GHB poisoning, including a longer duration of unconsciousness and features that mimicked toxic alcohol exposure including a high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA) and osmol gap. The patient was treated supportively with intubation, haemodiafiltration and intravenous ethanol until the diagnosis was refined using specific laboratory testing. The concentration of 1,4-BD was the highest reported in the literature and the outcome favourable.Discussion: This case highlights pharmacokinetic issues peculiar to 1,4-BD, including the interaction with ethanol which delays the onset of psychoactive effects from 1,4-BD's metabolite GHB, and dose-dependent pharmacokinetics. In overdose, 1,4-BD can induce a HAGMA and other features of toxic alcohol poisoning. Managing an unconscious patient with these features can prompt certain treatments until the diagnosis is refined, which can require specific laboratory testing to identify the culprit. The actual risk of toxic alcohol and other causes is adjusted on a case-by-case basis from the history of exposure and local epidemiology of substance use and poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Stefani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Darren M Roberts
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia
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18
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Loriaux D, Bergin SP, Patel SM, Tucker J, Barkauskas CE. Ethylene Glycol Toxicity in the Setting of Recurrent Ingestion: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2019; 11:e4375. [PMID: 31218140 PMCID: PMC6553679 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ethylene glycol (EG) poisoning is a toxicologic emergency requiring high clinical suspicion and early diagnosis to prevent life-threatening complications. Direct EG quantification methods involve cumbersome and time-consuming laboratory tests of limited utility in the emergency setting. Accordingly, the osmolal gap is frequently employed as a surrogate screening method in cases of suspected toxic alcohol poisoning. However, the osmolal gap has several inherent limitations to be considered when used as a diagnostic tool for EG toxicity. Although many of these limitations are widely acknowledged, the clinical finding of a normal serum osmolal gap in the setting of recurrent toxic alcohol exposure is an observation that has remained largely unexplored. The purpose of this case report is to characterize the accelerated osmolal gap to anion gap conversion that may occur in the setting of chronic toxic alcohol abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Loriaux
- Internal Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Stephen P Bergin
- Internal Medicine - Critical Care, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA
| | - Sweta M Patel
- Internal Medicine - Critical Care, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA
| | - Jesse Tucker
- Internal Medicine - Critical Care, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, USA
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19
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Berend K, Duits AJ. The role of the clinical laboratory in diagnosing acid-base disorders. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2019; 56:147-169. [PMID: 30917291 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2019.1568965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Acid-base homeostasis is fundamental for life. The body is exceptionally sensitive to changes in pH, and as a result, potent mechanisms exist to regulate the body's acid-base balance to maintain it in a very narrow range. Accurate and timely interpretation of an acid-base disorder can be lifesaving but establishing a correct diagnosis may be challenging. The underlying cause of the acid-base disorder is generally responsible for a patient's signs and symptoms, but laboratory results and their integration into the clinical picture is crucial. Important acid-base parameters are often available within minutes in the acute hospital care setting, and with basic knowledge it should be easy to establish the diagnosis with a stepwise approach. Unfortunately, many caveats exist, beginning in the pre-analytical phase. In the post-analytical phase, studies on the arterial reference pH are scarce and therefore many different reference values are used in the literature without any solid evidence. The prediction models that are currently used to assess the acid-base status are approximations that are mostly based on older studies with several limitations. The two most commonly used methods are the physiological method and the base excess method, both easy to use. The secondary response equations in the base excess method are the most convenient. Evaluation of acid-base disorders should always include the assessment of electrolytes and the anion gap. A major limitation of the current acid-base laboratory tests available is the lack of rapid point-of-care laboratory tests to diagnose intoxications with toxic alcohols. These intoxications can be fatal if not recognized and treated within minutes to hours. The surrogate use of the osmolal gap is often an inadequate substitute in this respect. This article reviews the role of the clinical laboratory to evaluate acid-base disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Berend
- a St. Elisabeth Hospital , Willemstad , Curaçao
| | - A J Duits
- b Red Cross Blood Bank Foundation , Willemstad , Curaçao
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20
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Villamar MF. Reply. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2019; 77:217. [PMID: 30970137 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20190018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio F Villamar
- Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Gau N, Scott MG. Fill in the Gaps: An Unresponsive 55-Year-Old Man. Clin Chem 2018; 64:1001-1004. [PMID: 29954778 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2017.280842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Gau
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Mitchell G Scott
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
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22
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Thermal Study of Polyols for the Technological Application as Plasticizers in Food Industry. Polymers (Basel) 2018; 10:polym10050467. [PMID: 30966501 PMCID: PMC6415443 DOI: 10.3390/polym10050467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work is presented the complete thermal analysis of polyols by direct methods such as simultaneous thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyzer (TGA-DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), modulated DSC (MDSC), and supercooling MDSC. The different thermal events in the temperature range of 113–553 K were identified for glycerol (GL), ethylene glycol (EG), and propylene glycol (PG). Boiling temperature (TB) decreased as GL > EG > PG, but increased with the heating rate. GL showed a complex thermal event at 191–199 K, identified as the glass transition temperature (Tg) and devitrification temperature (Tdv), and a liquid–liquid transition (TL-L) at 215–221 K was identified as the supercooling temperature. EG showed several thermal events such as Tg and Tdv at 154 K, crystallization temperature (Tc) at 175 K, and melting temperature (Tm) at 255 K. PG also showed a complex thermal event (Tg and Tdv) at 167 K, a second devitrification at 193 K, and TL-L at 245 K. For PG, crystallization was not observed, indicating that, during the cooling, the liquid remained as an amorphous solid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Kraut
- From Medical and Research Services and Division of Nephrology, Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles (VHAGLA) Healthcare System, and Membrane Biology Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles - both in Los Angeles (J.A.K.); and the Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis (M.E.M.)
| | - Michael E Mullins
- From Medical and Research Services and Division of Nephrology, Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles (VHAGLA) Healthcare System, and Membrane Biology Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles - both in Los Angeles (J.A.K.); and the Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis (M.E.M.)
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24
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Rooney SL, Ehlers A, Morris C, Drees D, Davis SR, Kulhavy J, Krasowski MD. Use of a Rapid Ethylene Glycol Assay: a 4-Year Retrospective Study at an Academic Medical Center. J Med Toxicol 2017; 12:172-9. [PMID: 26553280 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-015-0516-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ethylene glycol (EG) is a common cause of toxic ingestions. Gas chromatography (GC)-based laboratory assays are the gold standard for diagnosing EG intoxication. However, GC requires specialized instrumentation and technical expertise that limits feasibility for many clinical laboratories. The objective of this retrospective study was to determine the utility of incorporating a rapid EG assay for management of cases with suspected EG poisoning. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics core clinical laboratory adapted a veterinary EG assay (Catachem, Inc.) for the Roche Diagnostics cobas 8000 c502 analyzer and incorporated this assay in an osmolal gap-based algorithm for potential toxic alcohol/glycol ingestions. The main limitation is that high concentrations of propylene glycol (PG), while readily identifiable by reaction rate kinetics, can interfere with EG measurement. The clinical laboratory had the ability to perform GC for EG and PG, if needed. A total of 222 rapid EG and 24 EG/PG GC analyses were documented in 106 patient encounters. Of ten confirmed EG ingestions, eight cases were managed entirely with the rapid EG assay. PG interference was evident in 25 samples, leading to 8 GC analyses to rule out the presence of EG. Chart review of cases with negative rapid EG assay results showed no evidence of false negatives. The results of this study highlight the use of incorporating a rapid EG assay for the diagnosis and management of suspected EG toxicity by decreasing the reliance on GC. Future improvements would involve rapid EG assays that completely avoid interference by PG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney L Rooney
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Alexandra Ehlers
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Cory Morris
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Denny Drees
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Scott R Davis
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Jeff Kulhavy
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Matthew D Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
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25
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Liamis G, Filippatos TD, Liontos A, Elisaf MS. Serum osmolal gap in clinical practice: usefulness and limitations. Postgrad Med 2017; 129:456-459. [PMID: 28306366 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2017.1308210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although serum osmolal gap can be a useful diagnostic tool, clinicians are not familiar with its use in clinical practice. OBJECTIVES The review presents in a series of questions-answers and under a clinical point of view the current data regarding the use of osmolal gap. DISCUSSION The definition and the best formula used for the calculation of osmolal gap, the main causes of increased osmolal gap with or without increased anion gap metabolic acidosis, as well as the role of concurrent lactic acidosis or ketoacidosis are presented under a clinical point of view. CONCLUSIONS The calculation of osmolal gap is crucial in the differential diagnosis of many patients presenting in emergency departments with possible drug or substance overdose as well as in comatose hospitalized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Liamis
- a Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine , University of Ioannina , Ioannina , Greece
| | - Theodosios D Filippatos
- a Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine , University of Ioannina , Ioannina , Greece
| | - Angelos Liontos
- a Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine , University of Ioannina , Ioannina , Greece
| | - Moses S Elisaf
- a Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine , University of Ioannina , Ioannina , Greece
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26
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Krasowski MD, Ford BA, Klutts JS, Jensen CS, Briggs AS, Robinson RA, Bruch LA, Karandikar NJ. Using Focused Laboratory Management and Quality Improvement Projects to Enhance Resident Training and Foster Scholarship. Acad Pathol 2017; 4:2374289517722152. [PMID: 28913416 PMCID: PMC5590695 DOI: 10.1177/2374289517722152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Training in patient safety, quality, and management is widely recognized as an important element of graduate medical education. These concepts have been intertwined in pathology graduate medical education for many years, although training programs face challenges in creating explicit learning opportunities in these fields. Tangibly involving pathology residents in management and quality improvement projects has the potential to teach and reinforce key concepts and further fulfill Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education goals for pursuing projects related to patient safety and quality improvement. In this report, we present our experience at a pathology residency program (University of Iowa) in engaging pathology residents in projects related to practical issues of laboratory management, process improvement, and informatics. In this program, at least 1 management/quality improvement project, typically performed during a clinical chemistry/management rotation, was required and ideally resulted in a journal publication. The residency program also initiated a monthly management/informatics series for pathology externs, residents, and fellows that covers a wide range of topics. Since 2010, all pathology residents at the University of Iowa have completed at least 1 management/quality improvement project. Many of the projects involved aspects of laboratory test utilization, with some projects focused on other areas such as human resources, informatics, or process improvement. Since 2012, 31 peer-reviewed journal articles involving effort from 26 residents have been published. Multiple projects resulted in changes in ongoing practice, particularly within the hospital electronic health record. Focused management/quality improvement projects involving pathology residents can result in both meaningful quality improvement and scholarly output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Bradley A. Ford
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - J. Stacey Klutts
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Chris S. Jensen
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Angela S. Briggs
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Robert A. Robinson
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Leslie A. Bruch
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nitin J. Karandikar
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Fierro-Fine AC, Harland K, House HR, Krasowski MD. Ethanol Values During College Football Season: University Policy Change and Emergency Department Blood Ethanol Values From 2006 Through 2014. Lab Med 2016; 47:300-305. [PMID: 27572874 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmw028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tailgating is popular at many college football games. However, it is known to contribute to binge drinking and alcohol intoxication, which are common public health challenges. OBJECTIVE To use laboratory data to measure changes in plasma ethanol levels observed in a large state university emergency department after a series of reforms were enacted to reduce binge drinking. METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review on all serum ethanol levels measured at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics on weekends from 2006 through 2014. Data were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression after controlling for significant covariates. RESULTS A total of 5437 patients had ethanol levels recorded on weekends. After the implementation of policy changes, there was a significant reduction in the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of ethanol values reported in the severe intoxication range (≥240 mg/dL; AOR = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.92). CONCLUSION The policy changes implemented in 2009 in an attempt to reduce binge drinking are associated with a decreased likelihood of an ethanol result being in the severe intoxication range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia C Fierro-Fine
- Departments of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Karisa Harland
- Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Hans R House
- Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Matthew D Krasowski
- Departments of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
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28
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Choy KW, Wijeratne N, Lu ZX, Doery JCG. Harmonisation of Osmolal Gap - Can We Use a Common Formula? Clin Biochem Rev 2016; 37:113-119. [PMID: 27872505 PMCID: PMC5111243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Osmolal gap is the difference between the measured osmolality and a calculated osmolality based on the major commonly measured osmotically active particles. The perceived gap indicates the presence of unmeasured osmotically active particles. The major use of osmolal gap today is to screen for the possible presence of exogenous toxic substances in patients in an emergency department or intensive care unit. There is a long history of osmolal gap calculations and it needs to be appreciated that the uncertainty of the osmolal gap will be determined by the sum of errors in the calculated osmolality, error in measured osmolality and variability in unmeasured analytes. Since 1958 there has been a constant trickle of papers proposing both simple and sophisticated formulae to calculate the 'ultimate' osmolal gap. A gap as close to zero as possible and with a low coefficient of variation across multiple clinical conditions and analytical platforms are also determinants of 'fitness for purpose' of any osmolal gap calculations. The Smithline-Gardner formula for calculated osmolality [2(Na) + Glu + Urea] is fit for purpose in both normal people and general hospital patients. It also performs well across different analytical platforms. This simple formula can be used for rapid mental calculation at the bedside and automated laboratory information system reporting whenever a measured osmolality is requested. In this era of harmonisation, we propose that this formula be adopted by all clinicians and laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Weng Choy
- Department of Pathology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Vic., 3168, Australia
| | - Nilika Wijeratne
- Department of Pathology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Vic., 3168, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., 3800, Australia
- Dorevitch Pathology, Heidelberg, Vic., 3084, Australia; Melbourne Pathology, Collingwood, Vic., 3168, Australia
| | - Zhong X Lu
- Department of Pathology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Vic., 3168, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., 3800, Australia
| | - James CG Doery
- Department of Pathology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Vic., 3168, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., 3800, Australia
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29
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Kraut JA. Approach to the Treatment of Methanol Intoxication. Am J Kidney Dis 2016; 68:161-7. [DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2016.02.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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30
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Rasouli M. Basic concepts and practical equations on osmolality: Biochemical approach. Clin Biochem 2016; 49:936-41. [PMID: 27343561 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The terms osmotic pressure, osmotic coefficient, osmole, osmolarity, osmolality, effective osmolality and delta osmolality are formally defined. Osmole is unit of the amount of substance, one mole of nonionized impermeant solute is one osmole. Assuming an ideal solution, osmotic pressure (π) in mmHg is 19.3 times the osmolarity. Osmolarity is defined as the number of milliosmoles of the solutes per liter of solution. Suitable equations are presented for the rapid calculation of the osmolarity of different solutions. The concentrations of electrolytes are expressed by mEq/L that is, equal to their osmolarity as mOsm/L. If the solute concentration (C) is expressed as mg/L, mg/dL and g%, osmolarity is calculated as: C.n' /MW, C.n' (10)/MW and C.n' (10(4))/MW respectively. Osmolality is milliosmoles of solutes per one kilogram (or liter) of water of solution (plasma) and is calculated by osmolarity divided to plasma water. The osmolal concentration is corrected to osmolal activity by using the osmotic coefficient, φ. The salts of sodium (choloride and bicarbonate) and nonelectrolyte glucose and urea are the major five osmoles of plasma. The equation: Posm =2 [Na(+)]+glucose (mg/dL)/18+BUN (mg/dL)//2.8 is also the simplest and best formula to calculate plasma osmolality. The concentration of only effective osmoles evaluates effective osmolality or tonicity as: Eosm =2 [Na(+)]+glucose/18. The normal range of plasma tonicity is 275-295mOsm/kg of water. The difference between the measured and calculated osmolality is called osmolal gap. It is recommended to withdraw the formula of Dorwart-Chalmers from the textbooks and autoanalyzers and to use the simplest equation of Worthley et al. as the best equation for calculating serum osmolality. Furthermore the normal ranges of osmolal gap also must be corrected to 0±2mOsm/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Rasouli
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran.
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Rooney SL, Ehlers A, Krasowski MD. Reply to Dr. Kim and Colleagues Regarding Use of a Rapid Ethylene Glycol Assay. J Med Toxicol 2016; 12:326-7. [PMID: 27055453 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-016-0548-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney L Rooney
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Nazir S, Melnick S, Ansari S, Kanneh HT. Mind the gap: a case of severe methanol intoxication. BMJ Case Rep 2016; 2016:bcr-2015-214272. [PMID: 26917798 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2015-214272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of a 37-year-old woman with non-insulin-dependent diabetes on sitagliptin, an alcohol abuser who was brought unresponsive to the emergency department of our hospital. On arrival, the patient was intubated and mechanically ventilated due to a low Glasgow Coma score of 3/15. Initial laboratory testing identified profound high anion gap metabolic acidosis. Owing to the dubious circumstances and the depth of acidosis, methanol and ethylene glycol intoxication was suspected. Further evaluation revealed a significantly increased serum osmolal gap. Pending volatile compound screen, fomepizole was started and urgent haemodialysis undertaken. Subsequent brain MRI identified changes in putamen of bilateral basal ganglia, suggestive of methanol intoxication. The patient was later found to have an initial methanol level of 237 mg/dL. She was successfully extubated on day 2 of hospitalisation, with residual cognitive and visual deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salik Nazir
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stephen Melnick
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shabana Ansari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Haitham T Kanneh
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
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Orton DJ, Boyd JM, Affleck D, Duce D, Walsh W, Seiden-Long I. One-step extraction and quantitation of toxic alcohols and ethylene glycol in plasma by capillary gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detection (FID). Clin Biochem 2015; 49:132-8. [PMID: 26385496 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2015.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical analysis of volatile alcohols (i.e. methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and metabolite acetone) and ethylene glycol (EG) generally employs separate gas chromatography (GC) methods for analysis. Here, a method for combined analysis of volatile alcohols and EG is described. DESIGN AND METHODS Volatile alcohols and EG were extracted with 2:1 (v:v) acetonitrile containing internal standards (IS) 1,2 butanediol (for EG) and n-propanol (for alcohols). Samples were analyzed on an Agilent 6890 GC FID. The method was evaluated for precision, accuracy, reproducibility, linearity, selectivity and limit of quantitation (LOQ), followed by correlation to existing GC methods using patient samples, Bio-Rad QC, and in-house prepared QC material. RESULTS Inter-day precision was from 6.5-11.3% CV, and linearity was verified from down to 0.6mmol/L up to 150mmol/L for each analyte. The method showed good recovery (~100%) and the LOQ was calculated to be between 0.25 and 0.44mmol/L. Patient correlation against current GC methods showed good agreement (slopes from 1.03-1.12, and y-intercepts from 0 to 0.85mmol/L; R(2)>0.98; N=35). Carryover was negligible for volatile alcohols in the measuring range, and of the potential interferences tested, only toluene and 1,3 propanediol interfered. The method was able to resolve 2,3 butanediol, diethylene glycol, and propylene glycol in addition to the peaks quantified. CONCLUSIONS Here we describe a simple procedure for simultaneous analysis of EG and volatile alcohols that comes at low cost and with a simple liquid-liquid extraction requiring no derivitization to obtain adequate sensitivity for clinical specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis J Orton
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Room C-156, 1st Floor Diagnostic and Scientific Research Centre, #9 3535 Research Rd. NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2K8, Canada
| | - Jessica M Boyd
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Room C-156, 1st Floor Diagnostic and Scientific Research Centre, #9 3535 Research Rd. NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2K8, Canada
| | - Darlene Affleck
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Room 616, 6th Floor, Foothills Medical Centre, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
| | - Donna Duce
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Room 616, 6th Floor, Foothills Medical Centre, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
| | - Warren Walsh
- The Hospital for Sick Children, 3rd Floor Atrium, Room 3642, 170 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isolde Seiden-Long
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Room 616, 6th Floor, Foothills Medical Centre, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada.
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Abstract
CONTEXT Methanol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and propylene glycol intoxications are associated with cellular dysfunction and an increased risk of death. Adverse effects can develop quickly; thus, there is a need for methods for rapidly detecting their presence. OBJECTIVE To examine the value and limitations of present methods to diagnose patients with possible toxic alcohol exposure. METHODS I searched MEDLINE for articles published between 1969 and 2014 using the terms: toxic alcohols, serum osmolality, serum osmol gap, serum anion gap, metabolic acidosis, methanol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and fomepizole. Each article was reviewed for additional references. RESULTS The diagnosis of toxic alcohol exposure is often made on the basis of this history and physical findings along with an increase in the serum osmol and anion gaps. However, an increase in the osmol and/or anion gaps is not always present. Definitive detection in blood requires gas or liquid chromatography, laborious and expensive procedures which are not always available. Newer methods including a qualitative colorimetric test for detection of all alcohols or enzymatic tests for a specific alcohol might allow for more rapid diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to toxic alcohols is associated with cellular dysfunction and increased risk of death. Treatment, if initiated early, can markedly improve outcome, but present methods of diagnosis including changes in serum osmol and anion gap, and use of gas or liquid chromatography have important limitations. Development of more rapid and effective tests for detection of these intoxications is essential for optimal care of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Kraut
- Medical and Research Services Veterans Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, UCLA Membrane Biology Laboratory, and Division of Nephrology, Veterans Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, and David Geffen School of Medicine , Los Angeles , California
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Hložek T, Bursová M, Coufal P, Čabala R. Identification and quantification of acidosis inducing metabolites in cases of alcohols intoxication by GC-MS for emergency toxicology. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2015; 114:16-21. [PMID: 26001161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2015.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A simple, cost effective, and fast gas chromatography method with mass spectrometry detection (GC-MS) for simultaneous measurement of formic acid, glycolic acid, methoxyacetic acid, ethoxyacetic acid and 2-hydroxyethoxyacetic acid in serum and urine was developed and validated. This multi-analyte method is highly suitable for clinical and emergency toxicology laboratory diagnostic, allowing identification and quantification of five most common acidosis inducing organic acids present in cases of alcohol intoxication. Furthermore, when patients are admitted to emergency unit at late stage of toxic alcohol intoxication, the concentration of parent compound may be already low or not detectable. This new method employs a relatively less used class of derivatization agents - alkyl chloroformates, allowing the efficient and rapid derivatization of carboxylic acids within seconds. The entire sample preparation procedure is completed within 5 min. The optimal conditions of derivatization procedure have been found using chemometric approach (design of experiment). The calibration dependence of the method was proved to be quadratic in the range of 25-3000 mg L(-1), with adequate accuracy (97.3-108.0%) and precision (<12.8%). The method was successfully applied for identification and quantification of the selected compounds in serum of patients from emergency units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Hložek
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, 121 08 Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Miroslava Bursová
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, 121 08 Prague 2, Czech Republic; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Albertov 6, 128 43 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Coufal
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Albertov 6, 128 43 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Radomír Čabala
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, 121 08 Prague 2, Czech Republic; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Albertov 6, 128 43 Prague 2, Czech Republic
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Recommendations for the role of extracorporeal treatments in the management of acute methanol poisoning: a systematic review and consensus statement. Crit Care Med 2015; 43:461-72. [PMID: 25493973 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000000708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Methanol poisoning can induce death and disability. Treatment includes the administration of antidotes (ethanol or fomepizole and folic/folinic acid) and consideration of extracorporeal treatment for correction of acidemia and/or enhanced elimination. The Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisoning workgroup aimed to develop evidence-based consensus recommendations for extracorporeal treatment in methanol poisoning. DESIGN AND METHODS Utilizing predetermined methods, we conducted a systematic review of the literature. Two hundred seventy-two relevant publications were identified but publication and selection biases were noted. Data on clinical outcomes and dialyzability were collated and a two-round modified Delphi process was used to reach a consensus. RESULTS Recommended indications for extracorporeal treatment: Severe methanol poisoning including any of the following being attributed to methanol: coma, seizures, new vision deficits, metabolic acidosis with blood pH ≤ 7.15, persistent metabolic acidosis despite adequate supportive measures and antidotes, serum anion gap higher than 24 mmol/L; or, serum methanol concentration 1) greater than 700 mg/L (21.8 mmol/L) in the context of fomepizole therapy, 2) greater than 600 mg/L or 18.7 mmol/L in the context of ethanol treatment, 3) greater than 500 mg/L or 15.6 mmol/L in the absence of an alcohol dehydrogenase blocker; in the absence of a methanol concentration, the osmolal/osmolar gap may be informative; or, in the context of impaired kidney function. Intermittent hemodialysis is the modality of choice and continuous modalities are acceptable alternatives. Extracorporeal treatment can be terminated when the methanol concentration is <200 mg/L or 6.2 mmol/L and a clinical improvement is observed. Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisoning inhibitors and folic/folinic acid should be continued during extracorporeal treatment. General considerations: Antidotes and extracorporeal treatment should be initiated urgently in the context of severe poisoning. The duration of extracorporeal treatment extracorporeal treatment depends on the type of extracorporeal treatment used and the methanol exposure. Indications for extracorporeal treatment are based on risk factors for poor outcomes. The relative importance of individual indications for the triaging of patients for extracorporeal treatment, in the context of an epidemic when need exceeds resources, is unknown. In the absence of severe poisoning but if the methanol concentration is elevated and there is adequate alcohol dehydrogenase blockade, extracorporeal treatment is not immediately required. Systemic anticoagulation should be avoided during extracorporeal treatment because it may increase the development or severity of intracerebral hemorrhage. CONCLUSION Extracorporeal treatment has a valuable role in the treatment of patients with methanol poisoning. A range of clinical indications for extracorporeal treatment is provided and duration of therapy can be guided through the careful monitoring of biomarkers of exposure and toxicity. In the absence of severe poisoning, the decision to use extracorporeal treatment is determined by balancing the cost and complications of extracorporeal treatment to that of fomepizole or ethanol. Given regional differences in cost and availability of fomepizole and extracorporeal treatment, these decisions must be made at a local level.
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Fast determination of ethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol and glycolic acid in blood serum and urine for emergency and clinical toxicology by GC-FID. Talanta 2014; 130:470-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2014.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Dugger DT, Epstein SE, Hopper K, Mellema MS. A comparison of the clinical utility of several published formulae for estimated osmolality of canine serum. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2014; 24:188-93. [DOI: 10.1111/vec.12153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T. Dugger
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital; School of Veterinary Medicine; University of California; Davis CA 95616
| | - Steven E. Epstein
- Department of Veterinary Surgical and Radiological Sciences; School of Veterinary Medicine; University of California; Davis CA 95616
| | - Kate Hopper
- Department of Veterinary Surgical and Radiological Sciences; School of Veterinary Medicine; University of California; Davis CA 95616
| | - Matthew S. Mellema
- Department of Veterinary Surgical and Radiological Sciences; School of Veterinary Medicine; University of California; Davis CA 95616
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Krasowski MD, Davis SR, Drees D, Morris C, Kulhavy J, Crone C, Bebber T, Clark I, Nelson DL, Teul S, Voss D, Aman D, Fahnle J, Blau JL. Autoverification in a core clinical chemistry laboratory at an academic medical center. J Pathol Inform 2014; 5:13. [PMID: 24843824 PMCID: PMC4023033 DOI: 10.4103/2153-3539.129450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Autoverification is a process of using computer-based rules to verify clinical laboratory test results without manual intervention. To date, there is little published data on the use of autoverification over the course of years in a clinical laboratory. We describe the evolution and application of autoverification in an academic medical center clinical chemistry core laboratory. Subjects and Methods: At the institution of the study, autoverification developed from rudimentary rules in the laboratory information system (LIS) to extensive and sophisticated rules mostly in middleware software. Rules incorporated decisions based on instrument error flags, interference indices, analytical measurement ranges (AMRs), delta checks, dilution protocols, results suggestive of compromised or contaminated specimens, and ‘absurd’ (physiologically improbable) values. Results: The autoverification rate for tests performed in the core clinical chemistry laboratory has increased over the course of 13 years from 40% to the current overall rate of 99.5%. A high percentage of critical values now autoverify. The highest rates of autoverification occurred with the most frequently ordered tests such as the basic metabolic panel (sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, calcium, glucose; 99.6%), albumin (99.8%), and alanine aminotransferase (99.7%). The lowest rates of autoverification occurred with some therapeutic drug levels (gentamicin, lithium, and methotrexate) and with serum free light chains (kappa/lambda), mostly due to need for offline dilution and manual filing of results. Rules also caught very rare occurrences such as plasma albumin exceeding total protein (usually indicative of an error such as short sample or bubble that evaded detection) and marked discrepancy between total bilirubin and the spectrophotometric icteric index (usually due to interference of the bilirubin assay by immunoglobulin (Ig) M monoclonal gammopathy). Conclusions: Our results suggest that a high rate of autoverification is possible with modern clinical chemistry analyzers. The ability to autoverify a high percentage of results increases productivity and allows clinical laboratory staff to focus attention on the small number of specimens and results that require manual review and investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Scott R Davis
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Denny Drees
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Cory Morris
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jeff Kulhavy
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Cheri Crone
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Tami Bebber
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Iwa Clark
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - David L Nelson
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Sharon Teul
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Dena Voss
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Dean Aman
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Computing Information Systems, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Julie Fahnle
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Computing Information Systems, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - John L Blau
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA ; Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Ahmed A, Tschetter PA, Krasowski MD, Engelman A. Massive Ethylene Glycol Poisoning Triggers Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome. J Emerg Med 2014; 46:e69-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2013.08.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Revised: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Lung DD, Kearney TE, Brasiel JA, Olson KR. Predictors of Death and Prolonged Renal Insufficiency in Ethylene Glycol Poisoning. J Intensive Care Med 2013; 30:270-7. [DOI: 10.1177/0885066613516594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: We assessed the predictive value of selected factors on the outcomes of death and prolonged renal insufficiency (RI) from ethylene glycol poisoning. Methods: Retrospective, observational California Poison Control System study, over a 10-year period (1999-2008). We compared 2 groups. The first group (D/RI) included 59 patients who died (9 patients) or had prolonged RI (50 patients). Prolonged RI was defined as kidney injury in which dialysis was required for greater than 3 days after presentation. The second group (RECOV) of 62 patients had an uncomplicated recovery. Secondarily, we evaluated the association of time to antidote (ethanol and/or fomepizole) and time to dialysis with these outcomes. Results: The D/RI group was more likely than the RECOV group to present comatose, have seizures, and require intubation. The D/RI group had a lower mean initial arterial pH of 7.03 (standard deviation [SD] 0.20), compared to 7.27 (SD 0.14) for the RECOV group. The D/RI group had a higher initial creatinine (1.7 mg/dL, SD 0.71) than that of the RECOV group (1.0 mg/dL, SD 0.33). Patients with a time to antidote greater than 6 hours had a higher odds of dying or having prolonged RI (OR 3.34, 95% CI : 1.21-9.26) Patients with a time to dialysis greater than 6 hours had a lower odds of dying or having prolonged RI (OR 0.36, 95% CI : 0.15-0.87). Conclusion: Compared to survivors with an uncomplicated recovery, patients poisoned with ethylene glycol who died or had prolonged RI were more likely to exhibit clinical signs such as coma, seizures, and acidosis. Antidote administration within 6 hours is associated with better outcomes, unlike earlier time to dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick D. Lung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- California Poison Control System, San Francisco Division, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas E. Kearney
- California Poison Control System, San Francisco Division, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James A. Brasiel
- California Poison Control System, San Francisco Division, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kent R. Olson
- California Poison Control System, San Francisco Division, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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McQuade DJ, Dargan PI, Wood DM. Challenges in the diagnosis of ethylene glycol poisoning. Ann Clin Biochem 2013; 51:167-78. [DOI: 10.1177/0004563213506697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ethylene glycol poisoning, while uncommon, is clinically significant due to the associated risk of severe morbidity or lethality and it continues to occur in many countries around the world. The clinical presentation of ethylene glycol toxicity, while classically described in three phases, varies widely and when combined with the range of differential diagnoses that must be considered makes diagnosis challenging. Early and accurate detection is important in these patients, however, as there is a need to start antidotal treatment early to prevent serious harm. In this article, we will review the literature and provide guidance regarding the diagnosis of ethylene glycol poisoning. While gas chromatography is the gold standard, the usefulness of this test is hampered by delays in access due to availability. Consequently, there are several surrogate markers that can give an indication of ethylene glycol exposure but these must be interpreted with caution and within the clinical context. An in-depth review of these tests, particularly the detection of a raised osmolar gap or an raised anion gap acidosis, will form the main focus of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J McQuade
- Emergency Department, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s Health Partners, London, UK
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s Health Partners, London, UK
| | - Paul I Dargan
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s Health Partners, London, UK
- King’s College London, London, UK
| | - David M Wood
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s Health Partners, London, UK
- King’s College London, London, UK
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Ehlers A, Morris C, Krasowski MD. A rapid analysis of plasma/serum ethylene and propylene glycol by headspace gas chromatography. SPRINGERPLUS 2013; 2:203. [PMID: 23741644 PMCID: PMC3667371 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-2-203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A rapid headspace-gas chromatography (HS-GC) method was developed for the analysis of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol in plasma and serum specimens using 1,3-propanediol as the internal standard. The method employed a single-step derivitization using phenylboronic acid, was linear to 200 mg/dL and had a lower limit of quantitation of 1 mg/dL suitable for clinical analyses. The analytical method described allows for laboratories with HS-GC instrumentation to analyze ethanol, methanol, isopropanol, ethylene glycol, and propylene glycol on a single instrument with rapid switch-over from alcohols to glycols analysis. In addition to the novel HS-GC method, a retrospective analysis of patient specimens containing ethylene glycol and propylene glycol was also described. A total of 36 patients ingested ethylene glycol, including 3 patients who presented with two separate admissions for ethylene glycol toxicity. Laboratory studies on presentation to hospital for these patients showed both osmolal and anion gap in 13 patients, osmolal but not anion gap in 13 patients, anion but not osmolal gap in 8 patients, and 1 patient with neither an osmolal nor anion gap. Acidosis on arterial blood gas was present in 13 cases. Only one fatality was seen; this was a patient with initial serum ethylene glycol concentration of 1282 mg/dL who died on third day of hospitalization. Propylene glycol was common in patients being managed for toxic ingestions, and was often attributed to iatrogenic administration of propylene glycol-containing medications such as activated charcoal and intravenous lorazepam. In six patients, propylene glycol contributed to an abnormally high osmolal gap. The common presence of propylene glycol in hospitalized patients emphasizes the importance of being able to identify both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol by chromatographic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ehlers
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
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