P-Chloroaniline Poisoning Causing Methemoglobinemia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Background. Methemoglobin (MetHb) most commonly results from exposure to an oxidizing chemical but may also arise from genetic, dietary, or even idiopathic etiologies. P-chloroaniline (PCA) was one of the first substances described in the context of acquired methemoglobinemia. Case Report. We report...
| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Hindawi Limited
2015-01-01
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| Series: | Case Reports in Emergency Medicine |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/208732 |
| Summary: | Background. Methemoglobin (MetHb) most commonly results from exposure to an oxidizing chemical but may also arise from genetic, dietary, or even idiopathic etiologies. P-chloroaniline (PCA) was one of the first substances described in the context of acquired methemoglobinemia. Case Report. We report the case of a cyanotic chemistry worker who presented to our emergency department (ED) after working with PCA. His peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) measured by pulse oximetry was at 81% and remained on that level despite oxygen administration (100% oxygenation via nonrebreather mask). His MetHb level was measured at 42.8% in arterial blood gas analysis. After treatment with intravenous methylene blue cyanosis resolved and the patient was discharged after 36 hours of observation. Conclusion. Acquired methemoglobinemia is a treatable condition, which may cause significant morbidity and mortality. The knowledge about the most common causes, fast diagnostic, and proper treatment is crucial. |
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| ISSN: | 2090-648X 2090-6498 |