We report an unusual case of acute copper intoxication in a patient who died after swallowing more than 700 coins mainly of 1p and 2p denomination. At autopsy the liver showed fibrosis and extensive copper deposition was demonstrated in the histological sections. Electron probe microanalysis also confirmed the presence of copper in the hepatic tissue.
Alt ER, Sternlieb I. & Goldfischer S.The cytopathology of metal overload. International Review of Experimental Pathology1990; 31: 178-86.
2.
Walsh FM, Crosson FJ, Bayley M., McReynolds J. & Pearson BJAcute copper intoxication: pathophysiology and therapy with a case report . American Journal of Diseases in Childhood1977; 131: 1149-51.
3.
Jantsch W., Kulig K. & Rumack BHMassive copper sulphate ingestion resulting in hepatotoxicity. Clinical Toxicology1985; 2: 585—8.
