Methemoglobinemia as an uncommon cause of cyanosis

Neth J Med. 1999 Jul;55(1):19-22. doi: 10.1016/s0300-2977(98)00144-2.

Abstract

Cyanosis is usually caused by decreased arterial oxygen saturation due to pulmonary or cardiac diseases. Methemoglobinemia is a rare cause, sometimes with lethal outcome. Two patients are described, both with an unremarkable cardiopulmonary history, presented with severe cyanosis due to aniline-induced methemoglobinemia that developed at work. The symptoms and the treatment of methemoglobinemia are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aniline Compounds / poisoning*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / complications
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cyanosis / etiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking
  • Methemoglobinemia / chemically induced*
  • Methemoglobinemia / diagnosis*
  • Methemoglobinemia / drug therapy
  • Methylene Blue / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged
  • Oxidants / poisoning*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Aniline Compounds
  • Oxidants
  • aniline
  • Methylene Blue