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  • Title: Severe methemoglobinemia linked to gel-type topical benzocaine use: a case report.
    Author: Chung NY, Batra R, Itzkevitch M, Boruchov D, Baldauf M.
    Journal: J Emerg Med; 2010 Jun; 38(5):601-6. PubMed ID: 19097728.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND: Methemoglobinemia is an uncommon cause of tissue hypoxia, but it can be life threatening if it is not identified and treated promptly. OBJECTIVES: To highlight the importance of understanding the potential risks of over-the-counter medications, especially in unsupervised use. Topical benzocaine must be used with caution, even in the healthy population. CASE REPORT: We report a case of methemoglobinemia secondary to topical benzocaine gel. A 6-year-old boy presented to our Pediatric Emergency Department with cyanosis, vomiting, and lethargy after using a gel-type, 7.5% benzocaine (Baby Orajel) for a toothache. Physical examination revealed dusky blue skin, tachycardia, tachypnea, and a normal neurologic examination. His percutaneous oxygen saturation remained 77-83% despite the administration of 100% oxygen. His arterial blood sample had a dark chocolate color appearance, and methemoglobinemia was suspected. His methemoglobin level was 69.9%, which is considered a lethal level. After a single dose of methylene blue (1 mg/kg/dose), cyanosis was reduced and oxygenation improved. CONCLUSION: Over-the-counter topical benzocaine should be used with caution, and the presence of methemoglobinemia must be promptly identified and treated.
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