Citation

Huntington GR, Pennington JM. Acute Med. 2021; 20(2): 148-150.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Rila Publications)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

We report a case of fatal methaemoglobinaema resulting from sodium nitrite poisoning. A 28 year old woman arrested in the emergency department following collapse. During resuscitation a venous blood gas revealed a methaemoglobin percentage of 81%. Following treatment with methylene blue, sodium bicarbonate and adrenaline, the methaemoglobin decreased. Prior to transfer to intensive care, a CT head revealed extensive hypoxic brain injury. Two days later brain death was confirmed on brainstem testing. Severe methaemoglobinaemia is rapidly fatal, with fast diagnosis and treatment associated with improved outcomes.

Language: en