Bone marrow toxicity after yellow phosphorus ingestion

Emerg Med J. 2004 Mar;21(2):259-60. doi: 10.1136/emj.2003.007880.

Abstract

Suicidal ingestions of fireworks containing yellow phosphorus occur often during holidays. A case is reported of a 17 year old woman who intentionally ingested an estimated amount of 5.5 mg of yellow phosphorus, presenting with upper abdominal pain as the only complaint, a physical examination was normal. Blood tests showed a considerable decrease in the granulocyte count; the bone marrow biopsy revealed a decreased cellular mass with degenerative changes. Spontaneous remission was observed during the next 48 hours, with no further complaints.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Marrow Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Bone Marrow Diseases / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Phosphorus / poisoning*
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Suicide, Attempted*

Substances

  • Phosphorus