Naphthalene

Background

• Common ingredients in toilet bowl deodorizers and moth repellants

Mechanism of toxicity

GI upset CNS stimulation Hemolysis (especially in G6PD deficiency)

Clinical Features

Nausea and vomiting Inhalational exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation

Evaluation

Clinical history Mothball smell around mouth Naphthalene is radiopaque Serum levels are not available

Management

Support airway and breathing Treat coma and seizures as needed Treat hemolysis with IV hydration and alkalinization of urine Gut emptying and activated charcoal are usually not indicated

References

• Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999

Authors

Ben Isakson, Ross Donaldson, Michael O'Brien, MD