Compartment Syndrome Following Intramuscular Self-injection of Kerosene  and Rodenticide: A case report

Asiimwe, Daniel; Egesa, Walufu Ivan; Waibi, William Mugowa; Kajoba, Dickson; Kumbakulu, Patrick Kumbowi

Compartment Syndrome Following Intramuscular Self-injection of Kerosene and Rodenticide: A case report

Files

Compartment syndrome following intramuscular self-injection of kerosene and rodenticide A case report.pdf (722.45 KB)

Date

2021

Authors

Asiimwe, Daniel

Egesa, Walufu Ivan

Waibi, William Mugowa

Kajoba, Dickson

Kumbakulu, Patrick Kumbowi

Publisher

International journal of surgery case reports

Abstract

Kerosene and rodenticides are used in many households in developing countries. This case report aims to discuss the progression and management of a patient with intentional kerosene and rodenticide poisoning. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of blended kerosene-rodenticide poisoning in medical literature. This report describes a 23-year-old man who survived after intramuscular self-injection of 5 ml of kerosene mixed with a rodenticide into his left upper limb, with intent to commit suicide. He was admitted to our hospital following a convulsion and brief loss of consciousness. Compartment syndrome developed within 24 h of admission, necessitating urgent fasciotomy, repeated surgical debridement, limb elevation, wound cleaning and dressing, in addition to intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and close observation. Blood transfusion, phytomenadione (vitamin K1), tetanus toxoid, and analgesics were recommended. The patient also received physiotherapy, and was treated for depression. The limb healed completely, with contractures at the left wrist joint. Injected kerosene and rodenticide may result in compartment syndrome and variable local and systemic complications which require multifaceted care and a prolonged follow-up period. Seemingly minor injuries at presentation may quickly progress into considerable complications such as compartment syndrome. It is imperative that physicians comprehensively investigate patients with poisoning for multiorgan dysfunction. Anticipation of local and systemic complications of injected poisons and timely medical and surgical intervention is life-saving.

Keywords

Kerosene, Case report, Compartment syndrome, Suicide, Rodenticide

Citation

Asiimwe, D., Egesa, W. I., Waibi, W. M., Kajoba, D., & Kumbakulu, P. K. (2021). Compartment syndrome following intramuscular self-injection of kerosene and rodenticide: A case report. International journal of surgery case reports, 85, 106233.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.106233