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Hyperbaric oxygen for methylene chloride poisoning: report on two cases
1Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Methylene chloride exposure can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy effectively treated two patients with this occupational poisoning, improving carboxyhemoglobin levels and cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Occupational Medicine
- Hyperbaric Medicine
Background:
- Methylene chloride (dichloromethane) is an industrial solvent.
- Exposure can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning due to metabolic conversion.
- CO intoxication presents with neurological symptoms and elevated carboxyhemoglobin levels.
Observation:
- Two cases of unconsciousness in an occupational setting were reported.
- Patients diagnosed with CO intoxication secondary to methylene chloride exposure.
- Carboxyhemoglobin levels and neuropsychological tests were used for diagnosis and monitoring.
Findings:
- Serial carboxyhemoglobin levels showed a decrease following treatment.
- Carbon Monoxide Neuropsychological Screening Battery scores improved over time.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy appeared to accelerate recovery from methylene chloride-induced CO toxicity.
Implications:
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a potentially effective treatment for methylene chloride-induced carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patients with occupational solvent exposure.
- Further research may elucidate the optimal protocols for hyperbaric oxygen in such cases.