An 11-year-old boy was taken to the emergency room by his parents due to acute cyanosis, respiratory distress and altered mental status. The parents stated that the child had been playing in a nearby mechanic shop and had possibly ingested some unknown substance. Physical Examination: On admission, the child had generalized cyanosis, most evident in lips and nail beds, as well as tachypnea and tachycardia. Oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry was 85%, despite supplemental oxygen administration. A chocolate-brown coloration of the blood obtained by capillary puncture was also observed. Neurological examination revealed confusion and lethargy. According to the patient’s clinical manifestations, what is the most likely diagnosis?
Methemoglobinemia in a Case of Aniline Intoxication
Herranz, M & Clerigué, N. (2002). Intoxicación en niños. Metahemoglobinemia. Anales del sistema sanitario de Navarra, ISSN 1137-6627, Vol. 26, Nº. 1, 2003, pags. 209-224. 26. 10.4321/S1137-66272003000200013.
Contributed by René Alexis Rodríguez Joaquín