Ingestion of isobutyl nitrite, a recreational chemical of abuse, causing fatal methemoglobinemia.
Isobutyl nitrite is widely abused as a sexual stimulant and enhancer of discotheque dancing. Though the usual route of administration by inhalation has not resulted in any toxicologically verified deaths, there may be fatal toxic methemoglobinemia if the chemical is orally ingested. A second case of death following ingestion is discussed.
Office of the Medical Examiner, Boston, MA.
J B
JB
O'Toole
G B
GB
Robbins
D S
DS
Dixon
D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008708:Methemoglobinemia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D009573:Nitrites / Q000506:poisoning*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*
D009573:Nitrites; C018086:isobutyl nitrite