Fatal cardiovascular collapse following acute colchicine ingestion

Abstract

Background: A previously published prognostic rule predicts 100% survival after ingestion of cochicine doses less than 0.5 mg/kg and 100% mortality after ingestion of more than 0.8 mg/kg. This rule inaccurately predicted survival in a recent case.

Case report: We present a case of fatal colchicine poisoning in an adult who ingested a maximum of 39.6 mg of colchicine (0.40 mg/kg). He subsequently developed hypotension which was refractory to fluid resuscitation and infusion of vasopressors. He died of cardiovascular collapse approximately 35 hours after ingestion.

Discussion: Fatal outcomes are possible even with colchicine doses less than 0.5 mg/kg. Physicians caring for colchicine-poisoned patients must be prepared for the possibility of acute cardiovascular collapse and ventricular dysrhythmias regardless of the reported dose of colchicine.