An unusual cause of methaemoglobinaemia.
Methaemoglobinaemia is a rare condition characterised by increased quantities of haemoglobin in which the iron of haem is oxidised to the ferric (Fe3+) form. Clinically the condition presents with cyanosis and low oxygen saturations on pulse oximetry but normal oxygen saturation on arterial blood gas analysis. Most cases are acquired and are frequently drug related. We present a case of methaemoglobinaemia which presented to our hospital.
Conway
R
R
Department of Rheumatology, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin 9. richardconway@physicians.ie
Browne
P
P
O'Connell
P
P
D001784:Blood Gas Analysis; D003042:Cocaine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000737:chemistry / Q000592:standards; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*; D004340:Drug Contamination; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000737:chemistry; D008297:Male; D008708:Methemoglobinemia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D008751:Methylene Blue / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010092:Oximetry; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D012462:Saline Solution, Hypertonic; D055815:Young Adult
D013287:Illicit Drugs; D012462:Saline Solution, Hypertonic; D003042:Cocaine; D008751:Methylene Blue