Definition

Noun: * A toxic condition: A specific type of poisoning resulting from the body's exposure to naphthalene, a chemical commonly found in mothballs and some industrial products. The condition occurs when naphthalene is inhaled or ingested.

Usage

• This term is a medical and toxicological noun used to describe a diagnosed state of illness.
• It is typically used in clinical, medical, or public safety contexts.
• Example: "The patient was admitted to the hospital with symptoms consistent with naphthalene poisoning."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The primary risk of naphthalene poisoning is to young children who might mistake mothballs for candy.
  • Veterinarians warned that naphthalene poisoning in pets can cause severe anemia.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often modified to specify the route of exposure or the population at risk.
  • Chronic naphthalene poisoning can occur from long-term, low-level exposure in certain workplaces.
  • Acute naphthalene poisoning requires immediate medical attention.

Variants and Related Words

• Naphthalene (n): The white, volatile crystalline hydrocarbon substance itself, which is the causative agent.
  • The strong smell in the attic was from naphthalene in old mothballs.
• Poisoning (n): The general state of being affected by a poison or toxin.
  • Lead poisoning is another serious public health concern.

Synonyms

• Toxicity (from naphthalene): A more general term for the harmful effects of the substance.
• Naphthalene toxicity: A phrase with very similar meaning, sometimes used interchangeably in medical literature.

Notes on Meaning

• Naphthalene poisoning refers specifically to the toxic syndrome caused by naphthalene. It is not a general term for any poisoning.
• The effects primarily involve damage to red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), especially in individuals with a genetic deficiency of the enzyme G6PD.

Noun

1. toxic condition resulting from inhaling or ingesting naphthalene