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Acute blindness and putaminal necrosis in methanol intoxication
International Ophthalmology
|September 3, 1999
Summary
Acute methyl alcohol (methanol) intoxication can cause severe vision loss, including blindness, and even death. Early diagnosis by ophthalmologists is crucial, as visual impairment may be the sole presenting symptom.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Neurology
Background:
- Methyl alcohol (methanol) poisoning is a serious medical emergency.
- Neuro-ophthalmological and radiological findings are critical for diagnosis and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the neuro-ophthalmological and radiological findings in acute methyl alcohol intoxication.
- To highlight the potential for permanent visual impairment and mortality.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of 8 patients with acute methyl alcohol intoxication.
- Neuro-ophthalmological examinations including visual acuity, visual fields, and pupillary light reactions.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for radiological assessment.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with severe vision loss (no light perception to counting fingers) and absent color perception.
- Optic disc edema and nerve fiber layer edema were observed, progressing to optic atrophy.
- MRI revealed bilateral putaminal hyperintensities in 3 cases.
- Two patients died, and no significant visual improvement was noted in survivors.
Conclusions:
- Methanol intoxication poses a significant threat, potentially leading to irreversible blindness and death.
- Ophthalmologists must consider methanol intoxication in patients with unexplained visual loss, correlating ocular signs with systemic findings.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are essential to mitigate severe outcomes.