Work

Life-threatening methaemoglobinaemia secondary to cetrimide

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Methaemoglobinaemia is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition in which there is diminution of the oxygen-carrying capacity of the circulating haemoglobin. It can result from either congenital or acquired processes. Acquired methaemoglobinaemia is more prevalent than congenital methaemoglobinaemia, and notably it has a higher prevalence in infants and neonates than in adults; it results from exposure to oxidising agents. Methaemoglobin forms when haemoglobin is oxidised to contain iron in the ferric (Fe3+) state rather than the normal ferrous (Fe2+) state. Methaemoglobinaemia is a clinical diagnosis and is suspected in the presence of hypoxaemia refractory to supplemental oxygen and in the presence of chocolate-coloured blood. Symptoms are usually dependent on the methaemoglobin levels; at levels higher than 35%, systemic symptoms from tissue hypoxia may be fatal. We present a case of severe life-threatening methaemoglobinaemia following intra-abdominal use of cetrimide during hydatid cyst removal in a 60-year-old female.

Source: European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine

DOI: 10.12890/2024_004837

Authors: Radwan Zeidan, Mohammed Abdallah, Nazem Matta, Patricia Nehme, Mirna Fares

Institution: University of Balamand

Language: English

Topic: Methemoglobinemia and Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $323