Work

Methemoglobinemia in Infancy

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT: Methemoglobinemia represents a rare blood disorder which occurs through the oxidation of hemoglobin (Hb) from its ferrous (Fe 2+ ) to ferric (Fe 3+ ) state, thus disabling its oxygen transport function. The condition leads to functional hypoxia which manifests as cyanosis that does not respond to oxygen therapy. The condition affects neonates most severely because their enzymatic systems are not fully developed and their fetal Hb has a tendency to become oxidized. We report a case of a 4-week-old male term infant who developed severe cyanosis after receiving excessive EMLA cream (lidocaine/prilocaine) for circumcision pain relief. The methemoglobin level reached 52% which established the diagnosis. The administration of methylene blue brought about a quick clinical recovery of the patient. The case demonstrates the difficulties in diagnosis and potential dangers of using topical anesthetics in newborns while showing why early detection and proper treatment and parental education remain crucial.

Source: Annals of African Medicine

DOI: 10.4103/aam.aam_705_25

Authors: Ruaa Al-Hajjaj, Abdullah Almazouni, Subhranshu Sekhar Kar, Rajani Dube, Manjunatha Goud Bellary Kuruba

Institution: Ras al-Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University

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: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7125488369

FWCI:

Cites: 13

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