[A serious "acetaldehyde syndrome" compounded by dopamine]

Abstract

Disulfiram is commonly used in the treatment of alcohol dependence. It induces aversive symptoms after alcohol ingestion: the "acetaldehyde syndrome". Most often "acetaldehyde syndrome" is moderate but severe life-threatening symptoms may occur in specific circumstances. We report the case of a serious "acetaldehyde syndrome" with shock compounded by the initial administration of dopamine. Discussion clarifies the pathophysiology and develops the therapeutic management.