Clinical Communications
First report of suspected ethylene glycol poisoning in 2 dogs in South Africa : clinical communication
N. Keller, A. Goddard
Journal of the South African Veterinary Association; Vol 76, No 2 (2005), 116-119. doi: 10.4102/jsava.v76i2.409
Submitted: 13 June 2005
Published: 13 June 2005
Abstract
Ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) toxicity is a serious emergency in both veterinary and human medicine. Ethylene glycol (E/G) is the active anti-freeze principle in radiator water additives. It is odourless, colourless and has a sweet taste. As little as 5 mℓ or 20 mℓ is sufficient to kill a cat or a dog, respectively. Ethylene glycol is rapidly absorbed and metabolised in the liver to oxalate, which is deposited as calcium oxalate in the kidneys causing irreversible damage. This report describes 2 dogs that were suspected to have ingested ethylene glycol. The report contains a description of the 3 stages of ethylene glycol toxicity as well as a short discussion of the treatment. Public awareness about the dangers of anti-freeze will help in limiting exposure of pets and humans to this potentially fatal toxin. Veterinarians need to be aware of anti-freeze toxicity as delayed recognition and treatment will lead to the death of the patient.
Full Text: |
PDF (387KB)
Author affiliations
N. Keller,
A. Goddard, Metrics
Total abstract views: 272 Total article views: 650
Cited-By
No related citations found
Comments on this article
Before posting your comment, please read our policy. Post a Comment
(Login required) All articles published in this journal are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
©2014 AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. All rights reserved. No unauthorised duplication allowed.
AOSIS OpenJournals | Perfecting Scholarship Online
Postnet Suite #110, Private Bag X19, Durbanville, South Africa, 7551
Tel: 086 1000 381
Tel: +27 21 975 2602
Fax: 086 5004 974
Please read the privacy statement.