Methanol Poisoning as a Critical Emergency: Clinical, Diagnostic, and Systemic Challenges in Emergency Care
Methanol Poisoning as a Critical Emergency: Clinical, Diagnostic, and Systemic Challenges in Emergency Care
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51473/rcmos.v1i1.2023.1903Keywords:
methanol poisoning; emergency medicine; metabolic acidosis; optic neuropathy; fomepizole; hemodialysis.Abstract
Methanol poisoning is a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by severe metabolic acidosis, central nervous system injury, and a high risk of irreversible visual impairment. Although relatively infrequent in routine emergency practice, recurrent outbreaks associated with adulterated alcoholic beverages and illicit products continue to be reported worldwide, placing substantial strain on emergency care systems. This article provides a critical review of methanol poisoning pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic strategies, and management in emergency settings. Attention is given to decision-making under diagnostic uncertainty, outbreak response, and system-level challenges. By integrating established clinical evidence and international guidelines, this review highlights early clinical suspicion, timely antidotal therapy, and hemodialysis as key determinants of patient outcomes.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Lucas Pedroza Daniel (Autor)
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