2, 4-dinitrophenol poisoning caused by non-oral exposure

Abstract

2, 4-Dinitrophenol (2, 4-DNP) is widely used in industry, but recently, poisoning through consumption for weight control has been frequently reported. We report the cases of two patients whose deaths were attributed to occupational and non-oral exposure of 2, 4-DNP. They were all poisoned through skin absorption and respiratory tract inhalation; common features were excessive sweating, hyperthermia, tachycardia, clouded consciousness and asystole. Because of the lack of specific early symptoms, effective antidotes and the means of washing the contamination from the skin, their arrival in hospital was delayed and the supportive therapy was ineffectual. Cardiac arrest occurred quickly and unexpected after admission.