Methemoglobinemia induced by chlorphenamidine

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Pesticide ingestion can lead to severe health consequences.
• Chlorphenamidine is a plant acaricide used in agriculture.

Observation:

• A 76-year-old farmer intentionally ingested 100g of chlorphenamidine.
• The patient underwent gastric lavage and survived the acute event.

Findings:

• Methemoglobinemia was observed 20 hours post-ingestion.
• Lethargy persisted for at least 50 hours.
• Neutrophilic leukocytosis and kidney injury were noted.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for delayed toxicity from chlorphenamidine.
• Awareness of methemoglobinemia is crucial in managing chlorphenamidine poisoning.
• Prompt medical intervention can prevent fatalities from pesticide ingestion.