Journal of The Korean Society of Clinical Toxicology

Hypokalemic Muscular Paralysis Causing Acute Respiratory Failure in a Chronic Glue Sniffer: Yoon-Hee Choi, Dong-Hoon Lee, Eun-Kyung Eo; J Korean Soc Clin Toxicol. 2005;3(1):63-66. Published online June 30, 2005

Abstract PDF: Toluene is an aromatic hydrocarbon found in glues, cements, and solvents. It is known to be toxic to the nervous system, hematopoietic system, and causes acid-base and electrolyte disorders. Acute respiratory failure with hypokalemia and rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure should be considered as potential events in protracted glue sniffing. We reported the case of 26-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department with the development of respiratory failure and altered mentality due to hypokalemia after chronic glue sniffing. She was weaned from the ventilator 3 days later after potassium and sodium bicarbonate replacement and was discharged without respiratory symptoms and other complications.

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