Use

Ethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, sweet tasting compound used commercially in antifreeze. It has been utilized in suicide attempts, as a substitute for ethanol and in accidental poisonings in both children and domestic pets. Poisoning can result in central nervous system depression, cardiopulmonary symptoms, and renal damage. Rapid treatment is essential to prevent damage, as the compound is lethal in amounts of 100 mL. Monitoring blood levels of ethylene glycol, along with observing hypocalcemia, elevated anion gap, metabolic acidosis, and osmolal gap elevation, is critical for diagnosis.