ETHYLENE GLYCOL (ANTIFREEZE) It was a case that had doctors and law enforcement in the small town of Perry, Okla. puzzled. What killed 53 year-old Carol Hellar?

DETECTION  According to the thousands of pages of information, Hellar’s only symptom that was inconsistent with a reaction to her medication was kidney failure. The records showed throughout her illness that Hellar had a steady decline in kidney function. At autopsy, significant levels of calcium oxalate crystals were found in her kidneys and brain, which could only be present as a result of a genetic disorder or ingestion of ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, convulsions, stupor, or even coma.

HISTORY  Ethylene glycol-an organic compound widely used as an automotive antifreeze and a precursor to polymers.  “The interesting thing about ethylene glycol poisoning is that the symptoms can easily mirror those of an overdose of lithium and other prescribed psychoactive medications – which is what kept her doctors off balance,” Poklis said. “Poisoning from ethylene glycol is usually accidental, or the result of an attempted suicide.”

LASTING EFFECTS  In its pure form, it is an odorless, colorless, syrupy, sweet- tasting liquid. It is found in many household items like detergents, paints, and cosmetics. Ethylene glycol is toxic, and ingestion can result in death. The end result is kidney failure, among other things like damage to the brain, lungs, liver, and lungs.

CURE  Most people with ethylene glycol poisoning will need to be admitted to a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring, and may need a breathing machine (respirator).  Those who recently swallowed the ethylene glycol may have their stomach pumped (suctioned). This can help remove some of the poison.

The first symptom of ethylene glycol ingestion is similar to the feeling caused by intensely drinking alcohol followed by death. WASTED

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