Dietary supplement 2,4-dinitrophenol resulting in Fournier's gangrene

摘要

This case presents a complication from use of the illegal dietary supplement 2,4-dinitrophenol. Our patient presented with acute toxicity including neutropenia and Fournier's gangrene. 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) has been classified as unfit for human consumption and illegal for use in foodstuffs. Despite this, it is used by individuals trying to achieve rapid weight loss and alter appearance, such as body builders. An increasing number of toxicities including deaths have been reported and in 2013, the number of cases was described as rising dramatically. Poisoning with DNP results in fever, vomiting, flushed skin, restlessness, headaches and in severe cases can lead to coma and death. It has also been shown to have myelosuppressive effects. We believe this is the first-ever case of Fournier's gangrene (FG) related to acute use and overdose of this illegal product.