Salicylate, plasma or serum

Salicylates, sold as Aspirin or Acetylsalicyclic Acid (ASA), possess anti-inflammatroy, analgesic and antipyretic properties. They are available in many formulations including tablets, capsules, liquids and topical forms such as creams or lotions. Metabolism is primarily hepatic with renal elimination. In overdose situations a severe metabolic acidosis with a compensatory respiratory alkalosis may develop.

Central respiratory centre stimulation a hyperventilation a respiratory alkalosis Inhibition of Krebs Cycle enzymes & uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation a metabolic acidosis which leads to a increase in glycolysis a hypoglycemia.

Alteration in capillary integrity a pulmonary and cerebral edema.

Alteration of platelet function and prolongation of prothrombin time Clinical symptoms of salicylate toxicity include: pulmonary, auditory (ototoxicity, tinnitus), cardiovascular (tachycardia, hypotension), neurologic (CNS depression, seizures), gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting), genitourinary (renal failure), hematological and electrolyte disturbances (dehydration, hypokalemia, hypocalcemia & acidemia.