[Methaemoglobinaemia in a healthy patient after using topical anaesthetic cream, for laser depilation]

Methaemoglobin is the oxidised form of haemoglobin containing iron in ferric state (Fe3+) that impairs oxygenation and produces metabolic acidosis. It may be hereditary or acquired (contact with external oxidising agents). Cyanosis, is the main symptom and itr does not respond to the external administration of oxygen. Co-oximetry helps in the final diagnosis. Methylene blue is the treatment of choice. We present the case of a 21 year old female with methaemoglobinemia after using topical lidocaine and prilocaine anaesthetic cream for laser depilation.