JIST

Abstract

In view of the large number of patients presenting with hairdye ingestion, it was decided to study these cases so as to diagnose them based on the clinical profile and assess the outcome, in order to reduce mortality by effective management, as there is no antidote for hairdye [containing paraphenylenediamine (PPD)].

A series of 36 patients of acute poisoning due to hairdye ingestion (containing PPD) were observed for toxic effects on various systems. Clinical profile of PPD poisoning was characterized by angioneurotic oedema, chocolate coloured urine, myalgia and subsequently renal failure. Seven patients (19.44%) required tracheostomy for life-threatening angioedema, and in 4 patients (11.1%) with acute renal failure, haemodialysis was performed. Myocarditis was a common accompaniment necessitating cardiac monitoring. Mortality was 11.1% (4 patients).

The major challenge at admission was to ensure patency of airway. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention, such as tracheostomy for severe angioedema, is the cornerstone of management of poisoning with hairdye (containing PPD).