Related Experiment Videos
Methaemoglobinemia in nitrobenzene poisoning
D S Chongtham1, J Phurailatpam, M M Singh
1Department of Cardiology, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, RIMS, Imphal.
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|July 1, 1997
Summary
A young girl with methaemoglobinaemia caused by nitrobenzene poisoning survived using mechanical ventilation, oral methylene blue, and ascorbic acid. This case highlights the effectiveness of oral methylene blue when the parenteral form is unavailable.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nitrobenzene poisoning can lead to life-threatening methaemoglobinaemia.
- Parenteral methylene blue is the standard antidote for methaemoglobinaemia.
- Availability of parenteral methylene blue can be a challenge in certain settings.
Observation:
- A young female patient presented with severe methaemoglobinaemia secondary to nitrobenzene exposure.
- Mechanical ventilation was initiated for respiratory support.
- Parenteral ascorbic acid was administered.
- Oral methylene blue, prepared from laboratory stock due to unavailability of the parenteral form, was given.
Findings:
- The patient's methaemoglobinaemia resolved following the administration of oral methylene blue and supportive care.
- The use of orally administered methylene blue proved effective in this critical case.
- Ascorbic acid and mechanical ventilation contributed to the patient's recovery.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the potential efficacy of orally administered methylene blue in treating nitrobenzene-induced methaemoglobinaemia.
- It underscores the importance of readily available alternative antidote formulations or administration routes.
- Highlights the critical role of prompt supportive care in managing poisoning emergencies.