Chlorate toxicity
Contents
Background
- Potassium chlorate, barium chlorate, and sodium chlorate found in fireworks, match heads, and weed killers
Mechanism of Toxicity
- Oxidizers and attackers of sulfhydryl groups
- Cause methemoglobin formation
Clinical Presentation
Differential Diagnosis
Evaluation
- Co-oximetry
- Additional evaluation based on clinical presentation and presence of methemoglobinemia
- No specific serum levels are available
Management
- Activated charcoal IS recommended
- Methylene blue for methemoglobinemia (1-2 mg/kg of 1% solution)
- Sodium thiosulfate IV may inactivate chlorate ions (anecdotal)
- Hemodialysis
- Supportive care
Disposition
External Links
References
Olson, K. Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 1999.