The cardiomyopathy associated with methylsalicylate.

Dogs challenged with toxic doses of methylsalicylate developed acute myocardiopathy. Metabolic manifestations of uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation by methylsalicylate (MS) were observed. Oxygen consumption increased two-fold. The haemodynamic abnormalities produced by intervention were minimal. The measured metabolic parameters indicated profound derangement. A net efflux of orthophosphate, lactate and potassium was observed from the myocardium. Marked hyperkalaemia occurred terminally. Morphological changes were observed on electron microscopy.