Local necrosis and interstitial nephritis due to topical methyl salicylate and menthol

Cutis. 1987 May;39(5):442-4.

Abstract

Excessive percutaneous absorption of potentially toxic substances such as menthol and methyl salicylate may occur through local application of heat, such as the use of a heating pad. Menthol and methyl salicylate are found in nonprescription items and used for muscular and arthritic pains. This patient experienced full-thickness skin and muscle necrosis as well as persistent interstitial nephritis as a result of topical application of methyl salicylate and menthol followed by use of a heating pad, despite the manufacturer's warning against the use of heating pads.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Drug Combinations
  • Hot Temperature / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Menthol / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscular Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Necrosis / chemically induced*
  • Nephritis, Interstitial / chemically induced*
  • Salicylates / administration & dosage
  • Salicylates / adverse effects*
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Drug Combinations
  • Salicylates
  • Menthol
  • methyl salicylate