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Photographic fixative poisoning

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Contents of this page:

Alternative Names   

Photographic developer poisoning; Hydroquinone poisoning; Quinone poisoning; Sulfite poisoning

Definition    Return to top

This poisoning is from swallowing photographic fixative.

Poisonous Ingredient    Return to top

Photographic fixative can also break down (decompose) to form sulfur dioxide gas.

Where Found    Return to top

These chemicals are found in products used to develop photographs.

Symptoms    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Seek immediate emergency medical help. Give water or milk unless the patient is unconscious or experiencing convulsions. Contact Poison Control for further guidance.

Before Calling Emergency    Return to top

Determine the following information:

Poison Control    Return to top

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room    Return to top

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive:

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

How well the patient does depends on how much of the poison was swallowed and how quickly the patient received medical help. Swallowing these products can cause severe effects on many parts of the body. The faster treatment is received, the greater the chance of recovery.

Update Date: 2/28/2006

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.

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