Poison on Line — Acute Renal Failure Caused by Oil of Wormwood Purchased through the Internet

Abstract

Myoglobin released during muscle injury can precipitate acute renal failure.1,2 There are many causes of rhabdomyolysis, including excessive exercise, “crush” injuries, seizures, infections, severe potassium and phosphate depletion, staphylococcal toxins, venoms, and licit and illicit drugs, including ethanol.2–4 Intoxication with the liqueur absinthe (derived from oil of wormwood) has not been associated with rhabdomyolysis or acute renal failure. We report the case of a patient who was hospitalized after drinking essential oil of wormwood purchased through the Internet. Case Report A 31-year-old man was found at home by his father in an agitated, incoherent, and disoriented state. Paramedics . . .