Methyl Alcohol Intoxication (Methanol)
Description
Methanol is found in canned heating sources (eg. STERNO), antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, fuel additives, and paint removers. Ingestion can be intentional or accidental. Methanol is converted into toxic metabolites that cause blindness, confusion, and gastrointestinal symptoms. If left untreated it can be deadly.
Symptoms
Vomiting, abdominal pain, blurry vision, blindness, confusion, lethargy, seizure, coma, low blood pressure, death.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Alcohol screen and serum osmolality will be performed. An arterial blood gas will be done to measure the acid content in the blood.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- X-Ray
- BHCG
- EKG
- UA
Treatment
Fomepizole is administered to prevent further metabolism of methanol. Severe intoxication will require dialysis. Supportive treatment including mechanical ventilation and intravenous fluids may be required. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.
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