Ethylene glycol intoxication.

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is a colorless, odorless, water-soluble liquid. It is used in commercial products such as detergents, paints, lacquers, polishes, and cosmetics, as well as in solar collection systems. Most commonly it is used as a deicer and antifreeze, and it is with these two uses that most ingestions occur. Deicers and antifreeze contain concentrated ethylene glycol (70% to 95%). These products are readily available in the home, particularly with the onset of winter. Children are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, and consequently several swallows may be ingested before an accidental ingestion is discovered.