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Updated: Sep 16, 2026

Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia
Published on: August 24, 2011
Late-Onset Neonatal Cyanosis Secondary to Methemoglobinemia in a Preterm, Small-for-Gestational-Age Infant: A Case
1Department of Pediatrics, Dhiraj Hospital, Smt. B.K. Shah Medical Institute and Research Centre (SBKSMIRC), Sumandeep Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Vadodara, IND.
Abstract:
Methemoglobinemia is a rare cause of neonatal cyanosis stemming from hemoglobin iron oxidation, creating susceptibility due to immature enzymatic systems in newborns. This case study details a 32-week preterm infant presenting with unexplained desaturations (oxygen saturation (SpO2): 82-90%) on day of life 13, which were resolved with intravenous methylene blue and oral vitamin C after co-oximetry confirmed 18% methemoglobin. Prompt diagnosis and low-dose targeted therapy are essential for managing this condition in fragile, preterm neonates with persistent central cyanosis.
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