Massive copper sulfate ingestion resulting in hepatotoxicity

Abstract

Intentional overdosage of copper salts is seen infrequently in the U.S., but is fairly common in other countries (1). Toxic blood levels can be seen after oral ingestion of as little as one gram of copper sulfate in an adult (2). We report a case of a patient who ingested 250 grams of copper sulfate, developed transient hepatic dysfunction, and recovered after the prompt administration of chelation therapy.