Citation

Norčič G, Čebron, Sever P, Grosek J, Tomažič A. World J. Clin. Cases 2019; 7(9): 1038-1042.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Baishideng Publishing Group)

DOI

10.12998/wjcc.v7.i9.1038

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

BACKGROUND Despite negligible absorption of elemental mercury after acute ingestion, retention in the appendix with subsequent local and systemic complications is possible. We present a case of elemental mercury sequestration in the appendix, managed by laparoscopic appendectomy. CASE SUMMARY A 57-year-old Caucasian female was found unconscious following application of long-lasting insulin detemir and ingestion of elemental mercury in a suicidal attempt. Diagnostic investigations revealed several radiopaque collections in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and elevated mercury levels in the blood. Much of the ingested elemental mercury was eliminated from the GI tract with stools stimulated by several enemas. However, a significant amount of mercury remained sequestrated in the appendix despite all conservative measures. Consequently, following deliberations by an interdisciplinary team of specialists, laparoscopic appendectomy was performed 29 d after the mercury ingestion. The surgery itself and postoperative course were uneventful.

CONCLUSION Since conservative measures are often unsuccessful in the management of mercury retention in the appendix, surgery remains a compelling option to prevent possible associated complications. © The Author(s) 2019.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; female; case report; depression; suicide attempt; Case report; laxative; clinical article; middle aged; follow up; hypertension; heart rate; Caucasian; foreign body; hypoglycemia; dimercaprol; mercury; core temperature; non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus; histopathology; abdominal radiography; blood pressure; Mercury poisoning; Article; unconsciousness; dyslipidemia; medical history; laparoscopy; appendicitis; breathing rate; blood oxygen tension; Appendectomy; Appendix; insulin detemir; enema; clinical outcome; appendix sequestration; ascorbic acid plus polyethylene glycol 3350 plus potassium chloride plus sodium ascorbate plus sodium chloride plus sodium sulfate; elemental mercury sequestration; Mercury ingestion; Mercury retention