Methemoglobinemia

Your Path

  • Methemoglobinemia

Etiology

  • Hemoglobin changed to met-hgb form, which cant bind O2

Risk Factors

  • Often from meds like dapsone, benzocaine spray, rasburicase (in particular if G6PD deficient)

Symptoms

  • Progressive sob
  • Confusion
  • Acidosis and target organ dysfunction→ more severe w/higher levels met-hgb
  • Sometimes hemolysis

Physical Exam Findings

  • Tachypnea
  • Tachycardia
  • O2 sat 85%
  • Clear lungs
  • Cyanosis

Tests