TOXIC RESULTS OF DYE TREATMENT IN SEPTICEMIA

It is our desire to call attention to certain toxic results of the administration of dyes intravenously in cases of bacterial septicemia. In the case of mercurochrome-220 soluble especially, we have noted the occurrence of stomatitis of a severe grade with hemorrhage, diarrhea and dysentery, and the appearance of casts and albumin in the urine. These effects have had the usual clinical features of mercurialism. In some cases we have obtained excellent and immediate improvement with the oral and rectal administration of sodium thiosulphate solutions. REPORT OF CASES Case 1.—History. —O. M., a man, aged 45, entered the medical service of Lane Hospital, July 1, 1924, complaining of weakness, dyspnea, swollen ankles, loss of 20 pounds (9 kg.) and afternoon fever for the preceding six weeks. Examination showed only a substantial secondary anemia and a loud systolic blow over the precordium, together with enlarged spleen and small petechiae over