A case of successful multidisciplinary intervention for poisoning by intentional ingestion of potassium bichromate beyond the lethal dose

Abstract

This is a case report of lethal dose of potassium bichromate ingestion who survived after vomiting and intensive treatments. A male in their fifties without significant past medical history swallowed 20g of potassium bichromate as suicidal attempt. He was transferred to our hospital 12 hours after the intake. The gastrolavage removed orange-color sediments, suggesting the potassium bichromate from the history. Enteral activated charcoal and purgative medicine were administered in the emergency room. We also injected intramuscular dimercaprol and intravenous ascorbic acid for a week in the hospital unit. The patient underwent hemodialysis for three consecutive days. The patient developed transient liver damage, mild renal failure, intestinal dysmotility and aspiration pneumonia; however, recovered in 2 weeks and was referred to the near-by clinic for follow up with psychiatry consultation.