Camphor Poisoning: Over-the-Counter Dangers

Abstract

Intoxication from camphor has been reported frequently in the literature for decades, most cases involving the accidental ingestion of camphorated oil, mistaken for castor oil or other similar products. Over 20 years ago, Smith and Margolis1 collected 130 nonfatal and 18 fatal cases from literature dating back to 1833. Recent data from the National Clearinghouse for Poison Control Centers reveal an increasing proportion of ingestions of other over-the-counter camphor-containing preparations.2-3 Two cases with documented serum camphor levels have prompted this report and discussion of camphor's role in the self-medication over-the-counter armamentarium. CASE REPORTS Case 1 A 3-year-old girl was transferred to the University of Michigan Medical Center from a local emergency room.