Salicylism from topical salicylates: review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Although topical salicylates are widely used, toxicity from this route is rare.


METHODS
We present an unusual case of salicylism from a topical salicylate preparation in an 80-year-old woman. The patient was admitted to the dermatology service with a diagnosis of erythroderma and was treated with salicylate containing ointments. After six days of treatment the patient became confused and paranoid. A serum salicylate was 3.36 mmol/L (46 mg/dL). The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit were she was rehydrated and treated with bicarbonate and activated charcoal.


RESULTS
Her serum salicylate fell to 1.90 mmol/L (26 mg/dL) over a two day period and she regained a normal mental status.
Brubacher
J R
JR
New York Poison Control Center, New York 10016, USA.
Hoffman
R S
RS
D000138:Acidosis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000287:Administration, Topical; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced*; D003221:Confusion / Q000139:chemically induced; D003873:Dermatitis, Exfoliative / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016903:Drug Monitoring; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010259:Paranoid Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced; D012307:Risk Factors; D012459:Salicylates / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020156:Salicylic Acid; D012894:Sleep Stages / Q000187:drug effects
D007641:Keratolytic Agents; D012459:Salicylates; D020156:Salicylic Acid