What is produced in the metabolism of ethylene glycol?

The metabolism of ethylene glycol primarily produces glycolic acid and oxalic acid. When ethylene glycol is ingested, it is metabolized in the liver by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which first converts ethylene glycol to glycolaldehyde. Glycolaldehyde is then further metabolized to glycolic acid, which can potentially cause metabolic acidosis. The next step in the metabolic pathway involves the conversion of glycolic acid to oxalic acid, which can precipitate in the kidneys and result in acute kidney injury.

The production of these acids plays a critical role in the toxic effects of ethylene glycol, contributing to symptoms such as metabolic acidosis and renal failure. Understanding these specific metabolites is key for clinicians in managing cases of ethylene glycol poisoning.