Methanol Overdose/Poisoning Flashcards
Where is methanol present.
In some antifreeze products.
Industrial solvents.
Low concentrations in some screen washes and methylated spirits.
What is the cause of methanol’s toxicity.
Although it is not of high intrinsic toxicity, it is converted via alcohol dehydrogenase to toxic metabolites that are largely responsible for its clinical effect.
What are some early features of methanol poisoning. (8)
Ataxia. Drowsiness. Headache. Confusion. Vertigo. Dysarthria. Nystagmus. Vomiting.
What are the later features of methanol poisoning. (6)
Metabolic acidosis. Tachypnoea. Coma. Seizures. Optic disc and retinal oedema (blurred vision). Impaired pupil reflexes.
What is a consequence of methanol poisoning. (2)
Blindness may be permanent.
Parkinsonian-like signs.
What are the metabolic products of methanol. (2)
Formaldehyde.
Formate.
What does the mortality of methanol poisoning correlate to.
With the severity and duration of metabolic acidosis.