Ethylene Glycol Intoxication Requiring ECMO Support

Abstract

Ethylene glycol is commonly used in antifreeze, and ingestion of even a small amount can result in acute kidney injury, severe metabolic acidosis, and neurological injury. When cases are recognized early, treatment involves administration of alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitors to prevent conversion to toxic metabolites of glycolate, glyoxolate, and oxalate. In later presentations with more severe renal injury, hemodialysis may be required for clearance of toxic metabolites and supportive care for renal failure. We present the first reported case of severe ethylene glycol intoxication requiring support of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) due to refractory cardiopulmonary collapse.