Severe methemoglobinemia due to insecticide poisoning.

Abstract

Methemoglobinemia is an altered state of hemoglobin resulting in impaired oxygen delivery to the tissues. Deliberate ingestion of certain insecticides and pesticides may result in this condition. We report a case of severe methemoglobinemia after deliberate ingestion of an insecticide marketed to be safe and containing only biological extracts and fillers. Methemoglobinemia should be suspected with low oxygen saturation on pulse oxymetry and the presence of chocolate colored blood. The methemoglobin level of 91% in our patient is the highest level reported among methemoglobinemia survivors.

• Authors: Tarun George, Atif I Shaikh, Lovely Thomas, Abhilash P Kundavaram
• Journal: Indian journal of critical care medicine : peer-reviewed, official publication of Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine (Indian J Crit Care Med) Vol. 18 Issue 2 Pg. 113-4 (Feb 2014) ISSN: 0972-5229 [Print] India
• PMID: 24678157 (Publication Type: Case Reports)