Related Experiment Videos
Prilocaine-induced methemoglobinemia--Wisconsin, 1993
Abstract:
Methemoglobinemia is an uncommon disorder in which hemoglobin is not oxidized and not capable of binding oxygen. This condition may be associated with exposure to nitrate-contaminated drinking water, aniline dyes, and amide-containing medications. Ortho-toluidine, a metabolite of the anesthetic prilocaine, also can induce this condition (1). During March-August 1993, three Wisconsin women treated by the same oral surgeon developed methemoglobinemia after being injected with a prilocaine-based local anesthetic. The surgeon notified the Division of Health, Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services, of these cases 1 week after the third case occurred. This report summarizes the case investigations.
Insights
Three women developed methemoglobinemia after receiving a prilocaine-based anesthetic. This rare condition impairs hemoglobin
Area of Science:
- Medical Toxicology
- Hematology
Background:
- Methemoglobinemia is a rare disorder where hemoglobin cannot bind oxygen.
- It can be caused by environmental factors like nitrates and aniline dyes, or medications.
- Ortho-toluidine, a prilocaine metabolite, is a known inducer of methemoglobinemia.