Neurological Disorders

Paraphenylene Diamine (Hair Dye) Poisoning Leading to Critical Illness Neuropathy

Abstract

Neelam Saleem Punjani

Hair dye poisoning has been evolving as one of the significant causes of intentional self-harm in the developing world. Hair dyes contain Paraphenylene-Diamine (PPD) and a host of other chemicals that can cause laryngeal edema, severe metabolic acidosis, rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure. We present the case of a young woman who presented with complaints of progressive upper and lower limb weakness following PPD poisoning. The patient was diagnosed with the critical illness neuropathy on EMG and by history and examination. The patient was treated symptomatically and did well. Awareness and knowledge of this disorder and intervention at the right time is essential for physicians, nurses and health care workers to ensure appropriate care and treatment of such cases.