From the Research
The recommended treatment for phenyl poisoning (phenol or carbolic acid) is immediate decontamination and supportive care, with a focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications, as there is no specific antidote for phenol poisoning. For skin exposure, remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes, followed by undiluted polyethylene glycol and thorough washing with soap and water 1. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting but administer activated charcoal (1 g/kg body weight) if the patient is alert and presents within one hour of ingestion, as it can reduce the absorption of phenol 2, 3. Supportive care includes maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation, with close monitoring of vital signs and potential complications like metabolic acidosis, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Intravenous fluids should be given to maintain hydration and support kidney function. Phenol is rapidly absorbed through skin and mucous membranes, causing local tissue damage through protein denaturation while systemic effects include central nervous system depression, cardiovascular collapse, and hepatorenal failure. Prompt medical attention is crucial as severe poisoning can be fatal within 30 minutes to several hours.
Some key points to consider in the management of phenyl poisoning include:
- Immediate decontamination of the skin and eyes with water and polyethylene glycol 1
- Administration of activated charcoal for ingestion, if the patient is alert and presents within one hour of ingestion 2, 3
- Supportive care, including maintenance of airway, breathing, and circulation, and close monitoring of vital signs and potential complications
- Management of systemic complications, such as metabolic acidosis, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias, with medications like sodium bicarbonate, diazepam, and lidocaine 1
- The importance of prompt medical attention, as severe poisoning can be fatal within a short period of time 4