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Updated: Mar 20, 2026
13:13
Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia
Published on: August 24, 2011
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Acquired methemoglobinemia in infants
Mehmet Mutlu1, Erol Erduran, Yakup Aslan
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey Phone: +90 462 377 55 68
Summary
Prilocaine use in infants under three months is linked to acquired methemoglobinemia. Ascorbic acid is an alternative treatment, and Staphylococcus aureus sepsis can also cause this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Acquired methemoglobinemia is a serious condition in infants.
- Identifying etiologic factors is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the causes of acquired methemoglobinemia in infants under three months in the region.
- To inform clinical practice regarding medication safety and treatment options.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of infants diagnosed with methemoglobinemia.
- Data collected from medical records and ICD-10 codes (2000-2009).
Main Results:
- Nine infants (8 male, 1 female) were identified.
- Seven cases were linked to prilocaine used for circumcision.
- One case involved prilocaine-lidocaine for pain, and another was due to Staphylococcus aureus sepsis.
Conclusions:
- Prilocaine is contraindicated in infants under three months due to methemoglobinemia risk.
- Ascorbic acid is an effective alternative therapy when methylene blue is unavailable.
- Staphylococcus aureus sepsis should be considered as a potential cause of methemoglobinemia in infants.
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