Abstract
Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia is a rare but life-threatening event. The use of topical benzocaine spray in a 77-year-old woman during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram produced marked cyanosis and methemoglobin levels consistent with methemoglobinemia. Immediate recognition and prompt treatment of the disorder are essential to decrease morbidity and mortality.
MeSH terms
-
Administration, Topical
-
Aged
-
Anesthetics, Local / administration & dosage
-
Anesthetics, Local / adverse effects*
-
Benzocaine / administration & dosage
-
Benzocaine / adverse effects*
-
Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / adverse effects
-
Female
-
Humans
-
Methemoglobinemia / blood
-
Methemoglobinemia / chemically induced*
-
Methemoglobinemia / therapy
Substances
-
Anesthetics, Local
-
Benzocaine