Saved by a material safety data sheet.

BACKGROUND

We present the case of a young female laboratory worker who developed acute hepatic encephalopathy.

OBJECTIVE

To show that knowledge of occupational exposures to causative agents can alter therapeutic management.

METHODS

Although the patient was in a deep coma, her family members examined the workplace material safety data sheet, revealing exposure to chloroform. Since most chemical-induced hepatitis is self-limiting, a scheduled liver transplantation was postponed.

RESULTS

The patient recovered. Subsequent air sampling suggested that the patient had been exposed to chloroform at a concentration of more than 15 ppm for 2 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Our case report demonstrates the importance of obtaining an occupational history and how the patient's family can be important in this process.