Poison on Line — Acute Renal Failure Caused by Oil of Wormwood Purchased through the Internet

Myoglobin released during muscle injury can precipitate acute renal failure. 1 , 2 There are many causes of rhabdomyolysis, including excessive exercise, “crush” injuries, seizures, infections, severe potassium and phosphate depletion, staphylococcal toxins, venoms, and licit and illicit drugs, including ethanol. 2 – 4 Intoxication with the liqueur absinthe (derived from oil of wormwood) has not been associated with rhabdomyolysis or acute renal failure. We report the case of a patient who was hospitalized after drinking essential oil of wormwood purchased through the Internet. Case Report A 31-year-old man was found at home by his father in an agitated, incoherent, and disoriented state. Paramedics . . .