Adverse Effects and Toxicology Complete Practice Test 2026

Salicylate poisoning classically presents with tinnitus, rapid breathing, and often fever. The breathing pattern arises from stimulation of the respiratory center, causing hyperventilation and a respiratory alkalosis. At the same time, salicylates disrupt cellular metabolism and cause accumulation of organic acids, leading to metabolic acidosis. The hallmark is a mixed picture: metabolic acidosis together with respiratory alkalosis. So the option that lists tinnitus and tachypnea with fever, plus a mixed metabolic acidosis and respiratory alkalosis, best fits the classic presentation. The other options include features or acid-base patterns that are not typical for salicylate poisoning (for example, metabolic alkalosis or no acid-base disturbance).