PROPYLENE-GLYCOL - THE SAFE DILUENT THAT CONTINUES TO CAUSE HARM

Propylene glycol (PG) is present in many pharmaceutical products, loti ons, ointments, and cosmetics. Although considered to be a relatively safe substance, overdoses have been associated with serious adverse ef fects. Propylene glycol intoxication occurred in a child and caused ce ntral nervous system depression and a severe metabolic acidosis. Initi al. assessment revealed an elevated serum anion gap, a slight increase in measured serum osmolality, and a normal osmolal gap. The child's a cidosis was due to increased concentrations of lactate and pyruvate. T he possibility of serious PG intoxication should be considered in any patient with an unexplained serious metabolic acidosis.