Which metabolic condition is associated with ethylene glycol poisoning?

Ethylene glycol poisoning is associated with metabolic acidosis with an anion gap due to the production of toxic metabolites such as glycolic acid and oxalic acid after ingestion. When ethylene glycol is metabolized in the liver, it is converted into these acids, which lead to an accumulation of hydrogen ions in the blood, resulting in a decrease in blood pH (acidosis). This increase in hydrogen ions also causes a widening of the anion gap, which is calculated by the difference between measured cations and measured anions in the serum.

The presence of an increased anion gap metabolic acidosis is a hallmark of ethylene glycol toxicity, which can manifest with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and central nervous system effects. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential to prevent severe complications and potential mortality.

In contrast, respiratory acidosis, metabolic alkalosis, and hypercapnia are not directly related to ethylene glycol poisoning and involve different pathophysiological mechanisms.