RESUMO
Objective:To review the experience of acute poisoning due to the ingestion of hair dyes containing paraphenylenediamine in the Gezira area. Clinical presentation, management, and outcome are discussed. A retrospective review of cases hospitalized during a 10-year period. A total of 122 cases were included. In 114 cases [93.4%], there was suicidal intent. In 4 cases [3.3%], ingestion was accidental. In 4 cases [3.3%], homicidal intent was suspected. There were 110 adult female patients [90%], 9 adult male patients [7.4%], and 3 children [2.6%]. Hair dyes containing paraphenylenediamine cause serious manifestations of hypersensitivity and systemic effects when ingested and may prove lethal. A program of education to raise public awareness of the dangers of this chemical and stricter rules regarding its use and circulation should be implemented to avoid criminal misuse