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Acquired intoxication with copper: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Acquired intoxication is the result of consumption or absorption of excess copper (for example, consumption of foods or beverages that have long been stored in copper containers). Spontaneously terminating gastroenteritis with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can be observed. More severe copper intoxication is a consequence of consumption (usually with suicidal intent) of several grams of copper salt (copper sulfate) or the absorption of large amounts through the skin (for example, compresses saturated with a copper salt solution used to treat extensive burns). Hemolytic anemia and anuria can develop, eventually with a fatal outcome.
Indian pediatric cirrhosis, non-Indian pediatric cirrhosis and idiopathic copper intoxication are probably identical diseases in which excess copper causes cirrhosis. The reason for all is the consumption of milk, which was boiled or stored in corroded copper or brass vessels. Recent studies suggest that idiopathic copper intoxication can develop only in infants with an unknown genetic defect. The diagnosis usually requires taking a liver biopsy, which reveals Mallory's hyaline bodies.
[Treatment of acquired intoxication with copper
In case of intoxication with copper caused by ingestion of several grams, an urgent rinsing of the stomach is necessary, accompanied by daily intramuscular injections of at least 300 mg of dimercaprol to prevent fatal outcome. Chelate-forming penicillamine binds copper, facilitating its excretion. Doses of 1-4 g / day orally promote the excretion of copper absorbed through the burned skin. At an early onset, hemodialysis is effective. Sometimes copper intoxication is fatal, despite the treatment.
With Indian child cirrhosis, penicillamine can be effective.