Korean J Med.  1997 Jul;53(1):107-110.

A Case of Portal Vein Gas Embolism from Hydrogen Peroxide Ingestion

• Heo WM
• Lim HR
• Lee SI
• Yoo JK
• Wang JH
• Kim HJ
• Kim S
• Lee SC
• Yoo TS
• Jo YI
• Song JO

Abstract

We present a case of a 19-year-old male with portal vein gas embolism resulting from accidental ingestion of 35% hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is a commonly used germicidal cleansing agent. When it is applied to tissues, catalase causes its rapid molecular decomposition with the release of oxygen bubbles. The patient recovered without sequelae. Hyperbaric oxygenation may be of benefit in patients with respiratory compromise or central nervous system symptoms from gas embolism in hydrogen peroxide ingestion.

Keyword

Hydrogen peroxide; Portal vein gas embolism

MeSH Terms

Catalase
Central Nervous System
Detergents
Eating*
Embolism, Air*
Humans
Hydrogen Peroxide*
Hydrogen*
Hyperbaric Oxygenation
Male
Oxygen
Portal Vein*
Young Adult
Catalase
Detergents
Hydrogen
Hydrogen Peroxide
Oxygen