Signs of Wood alcohol (methanol) poisoning

Description

Methanol is found in wood alcohol, canned heating sources, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, fuel additives, and paint removers. Ingestion of materials containing methanol 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, visual problems, blurry vision, blindness, confusion, lethargy, seizure, coma, low blood pressure, death.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. An alcohol screen and serum osmolality can be used to identify the toxic ingestion. Other tests will be done to establish the severity of the disorder.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
X-Ray

Treatment

Fomepizole (Antizol) is administered to prevent further metabolism of methanol. Severe intoxications 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.