The use of sustained low efficiency dialysis (SLED) in massive paracetamol overdose

AbstractContext: Massive paracetamol ingestion causing mitochondrial dysfunction is uncommon. Use of sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) to improve acidaemia and enhance paracetamol elimination has not been previously described.Case details: A 44-year-old male presented to the emergency department 2.5 hours post overdose of 200 g (2.5 g/kg) of paracetamol. Examination revealed a BP 85/60 mmHg, pulse 112 bpm, temperature 33.9 °C and blood glucose of 13.9 mmol/l. Venous blood gas 5.5-hours post-ingestion showed a pH 6.9, pCO2 58 mmHg, HCO3 13 mmol/l and lactate 14 mmol/l. Fifty-grams of nasogastric activated charcoal and double-strength intravenous acetylcysteine were administered. Paracetamol concentration peaked at 4207 µmol/l six hours post-ingestion. SLED was commenced nine-hours post ingestion and acetylcysteine dose was doubled again during dialysis. Paracetamol extraction ratio was 47–52%. Plasma paracetamol clearance was steady throughout SLED (53–58 ml/min). Hepatotoxicity did not develop and ...