Toxic acute hepatitis and renal failure related to glue sniffing: a case report

TL;DR

A 19-year-old man developed severe liver and kidney damage after glue sniffing, highlighting the rare but serious health risks of toluene inhalation.

Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of acute renal and hepatic toxicity caused by toluene abuse.

Findings

A 19-year-old male developed acute renal failure and hepatic damage following glue sniffing.

Renal biopsy confirmed acute tubular epithelial injury, and full recovery occurred within 25 days of hemodialysis.

The case emphasizes the importance of considering toluene inhalation in diagnosing acute renal failure in young individuals.

Abstract

Glue sniffing is the most prevalent form of inhalant abuse worldwide, especially prominent in developing countries. Toluene, a solvent in glue, is identified as its primary toxic component. Chronic abuse leads to symptoms like muscle weakness, gastrointestinal problems, and central nervous system impairment. Acute complications such as kidney injury and hepatitis with cholestasis are rare but severe. This report details a 19-year-old male who presented with abdominal pain, respiratory distress, and hemoptysis after glue inhalation. He rapidly developed renal failure and hepatic damage. Renal biopsy confirmed acute tubular epithelial injury. Hemodialysis was initiated due to severe toxicity, with complete recovery of renal and hepatic functions achieved within 25 days. These findings underscore the need to consider toluene inhalation in the differential diagnosis of acute renal failure, especially in young individuals. Additionally, a brief review of the literature highlights the acute renal and hepatic toxicities associated with toluene abuse.

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