Fatal Eucalyptus Oil Poisoning in an Adult Male: A Case Report With Comprehensive Autopsy and Histopathological Findings

Eucalyptus oil is a widely available essential oil with therapeutic applications, but its toxic effects following ingestion are significant. We report a fatal case of eucalyptus oil poisoning in an adult male who mistakenly ingested 15 mL of eucalyptus oil stored in a cough syrup container. The patient developed generalized tonic-clonic seizures within minutes, followed by unresponsiveness and respiratory depression. Despite intubation and supportive treatment, he suffered a cardiac arrest and was revived after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, multiple seizure episodes persisted, and he was transferred to a tertiary care center, where he succumbed to death. Autopsy findings revealed corrosive damage to the tongue, trachea, stomach, and intestines, along with congestion in multiple organs. Histopathological examination showed extensive damage, including pulmonary emphysema, macrovesicular steatosis, and acute tubular necrosis. This case highlights the multi-organ effects of eucalyptus oil poisoning and underscores the importance of public awareness regarding its potential lethality.