What is the ingredient neeli and para- phenylenediamine?
Answers
Paraphenylenediamine is an important constituent of hair dye toxicity of which one could herald fatal complications such as rhabdomyolysis, renal failure, angioneurotic edema, and respiratory failure. We present a case of hair dye poisoning that presented with respiratory distress due to laryngeal edema and later developed trismus, subclinical tetany, apnea, and conduction abnormality on electrocardiogram. This case report highlights the need for a thorough toxicological review of the components of any ingested substance.
Keywords: Hair dye poisoning, Paraphenylenediamine, renal failure
INTRODUCTION
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD—a common ingredient in hair dyes) poisoning, although a rare form of intoxication in the West, is fairly common in some parts of the world such as East Africa, Indian subcontinent, and Middle East countries.[1] Literature search via Google scholar revealed that a study in northern India reported 323 cases over a span of about 5 years (July 2004-March 2009) and another study in Morocco reported 374 cases over a 11 yr study period (1992-2002).[2,3] PPD poisoning poses considerable risk with mortality rates ranging from 12% to 42%.[1] We bring forth a case of PPD poisoning which developed severe edema of the face and neck requiring emergency tracheostomy, followed by rhabdomyolysis, and respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilator support but recovered after prompt management.
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