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Nail polish poisoning - Overview

Alternative Names

Organic solvent syndrome; Psychoorganic syndrome; Chronic solvent encephalopathy

Definition of Nail polish poisoning:

This poisoning is from swallowing or breathing in (inhaling) nail polish.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

  • Toluene
  • Butyl acetate
  • Ethyl acetate
  • Dibutyl phthalate

Where Found:

  • Various fingernail polishes

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

  • Reviewed last on: 8/3/2011
  • Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Bruckner V, Satheesh S, Warren A, Warren AD. Toxic effects of solvents and vapors. In: Klaassen CD, ed. Casarettand Doull’s Toxicology: The Basic Science of Poisons. 7th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2008:chap 24.

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