Metabolic Acidosis Complicating Ingestion of Disinfectant Floor Cleaner Containing Butoxyethanol

Abstract

Butoxyethanol intoxication has seldom been reported. We describe a case of ingestion of butoxyethanol-containing cleaner resulting in high anion gap metabolic acidosis, which resolved after treatment with ethanol and haemodialysis. The presentations and treatments of previous cases are highlighted. Discussion is centred on the toxicological pathway of butoxyethanol and the role of alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitor.