Ishtiaq Ahmed, Sayed Athar Hussain Kazmi.
Phenol Toxicity.
J Coll Physicians Surg Pak Jan ;10(9):344-5.

Phenol toxicity is a rare incidence. A case of accidental intravenous injection of 5% phenol in almond oil during surgery is being reported. Supportive treatment was given to revive the patient. Phlebitis at the site of injection was the only complication.

Case Report: A 74 years old male was prepared for haemorrhoidectomy under spinal anaesthesia. The patient suddenly developed tonic clonic convulsions all over the body just before the start of surgery and became drowsy. His pulse rate increased to 120 pm from 84 pm while the B.P increased about 10% above the baseline. It was found that Injection phenol (5%) in almond oil (6cc) was accidentally injected intravenously in place of injection Velosef by a house officer. The surgery was abandoned and supportive treatment (injection Valium 5 mg, hydrocortisone 500 mg I/V, O2 inhalation, heparin infusion 5000 i.u) was given. No cyanosis was observed. He remained drowsy for about 30 minutes. He was kept under observation for the development of fat embolism and phenol toxicity for 24 hours. He remained stable haemodynamically and no other signs except phlebitis at the site of intravenous injection were observed.

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