Favourable evolution of a deep humeral thrombophlebitis after paraffin oil injection

Autor: J. Sacca, D. Atchade, J.L. Padonou, O. Biaou, C. Hounkpè, A.-R. Aguemon
Rok vydání: 2001
Předmět:
Zdroj: Canadian Journal of Anesthesia/Journal canadien d'anesthésie. 48:1169-1169
ISSN: 1496-8975
0832-610X
Popis: To the Editor: To our knowledge, the effects of iv injection of paraffin oil had not been reported prior to our recent publication.1 We wish to report on the long term follow-up of this unusual case. A young man, age 18 yr, injected himself 2.5 mL of paraffin oil in the right humeral vein. Thrombophlebitis and thrombosis of the deep humeral vein ensued, treated initially with iv heparin, dexamethasone and antibiotics. Oral anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory treatment was pursued orally after discharge. The patient abandoned the treatment five months later. On followup 13 months after the event, clinical examination was essentially normal and a repeat phlebography showed a 50% reperfusion of the venous vasculature. (Figure). Paraffin oil is irritating for the skin and mucous membranes. Its subcutaneous injection results in tissue necrosis and abscess formation.1 – 4 Ingestion and/or inhalation of the substance can lead to coma.4 , 5 Despite the iv injection of 2.5 mL of paraffin oil, no effects on the central nervous system were noted, possibly because the intense pain on injection limited the amount infused. The subcutaneous injection of petroleum distillates produces vein thrombosis by contact.3 Direct iv injection resulted in more severe and extensive deep vein thrombosis. Despite therapy and partial recuperation of the venous circulation, thrombosis of the humeral vein was irreversible. Had the patient pursued treatment, venous reperfusion may have been more complete. However, functional recuperation was good. We believe prompt and sustained treatment with anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory drugs contributed to the favourable outcome observed in this case.
Databáze: OpenAIRE
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