Mothball Mayhem: Relapsing Toxic Leukoencephalopathy due to p-Dichlorobenzene Neurotoxicity

Background: Aromatic hydrocarbons (such as toluene, n-hexane, and methyl butyl ketone) are volatile, lipid-soluble compounds found in various household and commercial products, such as aerosols, cleaning fluids, paints, and fuels. These substances are not identified as recreational drugs, but they are readily available and are commonly abused by sniffing (nasal inhalation) or huffing (oral inhalation). Symptoms due to inhalant abuse are similar to those resulting from central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol.

Because of its much lesser toxicity, p-dichlorobenzene (PDB) has replaced naphthalene as the primary component of mothballs. Both compounds have abuse potential. Inhalation and dermal absorptions are the common exposure routes. Toxicity is generally a consequence of accidental or occupational exposure. Toxicity rarely results from chronic ingestion (sucking or chewing) (1–4). Short-term ingestion of mothballs may be seen in …