Ethylene Glycol Poisoning: Resolution of Cranial Nerve Deficit

Ethylene glycol poisoning is a major contributor to the development of idiopathic metabolic acidosis, which may lead to renal failure. Ethylene glycol poisoning should be among suspected differentials when assessing a seemingly intoxicated patient with hypocalcemia, anion gap acidosis, and nontoxic blood alcohol levels. Glycol intoxication may lead to delayed neurologic manifestations, which may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis. No clear clinical guidelines exist to recommend treatment for this late effect. This is a case of the complete resolution of facial nerve deficit secondary to glycol poisoning after the completion of a steroid therapy course on an inpatient psychiatric unit.