PEDIATRICS Vol. 62 No. 5s November 1978, pp. 873-876
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Pathophysiology of Aspirin Overdosage Toxicity, With Implications for Management

Anthony R. Temple M.D.1

1 Intennountain Regional Poison Control Center, and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah College of Medicine, Salt Lake City

The principal pathophysiologic effects of toxic doses of salicylates are characterized by (1) stimulation of the respiratory center of the brain, leading to hyperpnea and respiratory alkalosis; (2) uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, leading to increased oxygen utilization and glucose demand, increased glyconeogenesis, and increased heat production; (3) inhibition of Krebs cycle enzymes, leading to decreased glucose availability and increased organic acids; (4) alterations in lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism, enhancing metabolic acidosis; and (5) increased fluid and electrolyte losses, leading to dehydration, sodium depletion, potassium depletion, and loss of buffer capacity. The principal toxic manifestations of respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis, altered glucose availability and depletion, fluid and electrolyte losses, and hypermetabolism result in serious morbidity and are potentially fatal. Therapy of salicylate intoxication should be aimed principally at replacement of fluid and electrolytes, correction of acidemia, administration of glucose, and prevention of further salicylate absorption and enhancement of salicylate elimination.