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Subarachnoid hemorrhage resulting from methanol intoxication: demonstration by computed tomography
R del Carpio-O'Donovan1, J Glay
1Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Que.
Abstract:
Subarachnoid hemorrhage developed in a patient intoxicated with methanol. Computed tomography performed at the time of admission suggested this complication. The hemorrhage was definite and extensive by the 5th day after admission and was accompanied by left caudate and pontine hemorrhage, as well as severe cerebral edema. The authors are unaware of any previous reports of subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with ingestion of methanol.
Insights
Methanol intoxication can lead to subarachnoid hemorrhage, a rare complication. This case report details a patient experiencing extensive brain hemorrhages and cerebral edema following methanol ingestion.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Methanol is a toxic alcohol that can cause severe health consequences.
- Neurological complications of methanol toxicity typically include vision loss and metabolic acidosis.
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a rare but serious neurological event.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms of methanol intoxication.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed signs suggestive of subarachnoid hemorrhage upon admission.
- Hemorrhage became more extensive by day 5, with additional findings of left caudate and pontine hemorrhage, and severe cerebral edema.
Findings:
- The patient developed subarachnoid hemorrhage following methanol intoxication.
- CT scans confirmed and tracked the progression of the hemorrhage.
- Associated findings included focal hemorrhages and significant cerebral edema.
Implications:
- This case highlights a previously unreported association between methanol ingestion and subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Clinicians should consider subarachnoid hemorrhage in the differential diagnosis of neurological complications in methanol-intoxicated patients.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and incidence of this rare complication.