Author: Glossary

Poisoning caused by ingestion of plants of the genus Arum (e.g., dieffenbachia, caladium, and philodendron), which contain poisonous calcium oxalate crystals. Symptoms include irritation, pain, burning, and swelling of the affected areas. The affected area should be washed with water, and ice should be applied. If pain is severe, corticosteroids are of benefit.  

Toxicity caused by ingestion of antimony. Symptoms include an acrid metallic taste, cardiac failure, sweating, and vomiting about 30 min after ingestion. In large doses it causes irritation of the lining of the alimentary tract, resembling arsenic poisoning.  

Nausea, vomiting, renal dysfunction, and cognitive disorders resulting from excessive exposure to aluminum. Aluminum poisoning (impaired cognition or “dialysis dementia” in patients with end-stage renal disease) has been nearly eliminated now that dialysates no longer contain aluminum.  

Excessive stimulation of the autonomic nervous system resulting from nicotine exposure. Usually nicotine poisoning occurs when young children accidentally consume nicotine chewing gum or patches found in the home.  

The ingestion or inhalation of a large amount of lead, causing abdominal pain, metallic taste in mouth, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, stupor, renal failure, convulsions, and coma.  

The acute, toxic, systemic reaction to an overdose of cocaine that has been eaten, smoked, inhaled, or injected.  

Toxicity caused by acetanilid ingestion. Symptoms are cyanosis due to formation of methemoglobin, cold sweat, irregular pulse, dyspnea, and unconsciousness. Sudden cardiac failure may occur.  

Liver injury, necrosis, or failure resulting from an overdose of acetaminophen. Because acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, this is one of the most common poisonings encountered in emergency departments and hospitals. Acetaminophen is found in many OTC and prescription drugs. If a reliable history of the amount of…