Fatal Eucalyptus Oil Poisoning in an Adult Male: A Case Report With Comprehensive Autopsy and Histopathological Findings.

Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil known for its therapeutic benefits, but it can have devastating consequences if ingested. A recent case report highlights the dangers of eucalyptus oil poisoning, where an adult male accidentally consumed 15 mL of the oil from a container resembling a cough syrup bottle. The patient's symptoms developed rapidly, with generalized tonic-clonic seizures occurring within minutes of ingestion. This was followed by a loss of responsiveness and respiratory depression, indicating severe toxicity. Despite prompt medical intervention, including intubation and supportive care, the patient's condition continued to deteriorate. The patient suffered a cardiac arrest but was revived after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, he continued to experience multiple seizure episodes, which necessitated transfer to a tertiary care center. Unfortunately, the patient ultimately succumbed to his injuries, and an autopsy was performed to determine the extent of the damage. The autopsy revealed significant corrosive damage to various organs, including the tongue, trachea, stomach, and intestines. Histopathological examination further revealed extensive damage, including pulmonary emphysema, macrovesicular steatosis, and acute tubular necrosis. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential lethality of eucalyptus oil poisoning and emphasizes the need for public awareness about the dangers of ingesting this essential oil. It is crucial for individuals to exercise caution when handling eucalyptus oil and to keep it out of reach of children and adults who may mistakenly ingest it. By promoting awareness and taking preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of such tragic incidents and ensure the safe use of eucalyptus oil for its therapeutic benefits. Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40432665/