Salicylism from topical salicylates: Review of the literature

Background: Although topical salicylates are widely used, toxicity from this route is rare. Case Report: We present an unusual case of salicylism from a topical salicylate preparation in an 80-year-old woman. The patient was admitted to the dermatology service with a diagnosis of erythroderma and was treated with salicylate containing ointments. After six days of treatment the patient became confused and paranoid. A serum salicylate was 3.36 mmol/L (46 mg/dL). The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit were she was rehydrated and treated with bicarbonate and activated charcoal. Results: Her serum salicylate fell to 1.90 mmol/L (26 mg/dL) over a two day period and she regained a normal mental status.