Suicidal Dilantin (Sodium Diphenylhydantoin) Poisoning

Abstract

THE reported incidence of toxic reactions to dilantin (sodium diphenylhydantoin) has varied from 15 to 93 per cent,1 , 2 since its introduction by Merritt and Putnam3 in 1938. These reactions have involved the central nervous system, the gastrointestinal tract, the skin, the gums, the hematopoietic system and, occasionally, the liver.4 5 6 7 8 9 To our knowledge, only 3 deaths attributable to dilantin have been reported.10 11 12 The purpose of this communication is to report a fourth case in which death was caused by the drug.Case ReportA 16-year-old girl was admitted to the Medical Service of Gouverneur Hospital on January 12, 1950, with a . . .