Optic neuropathy in methanol intoxication. Case report

Abstract

Background. Methanol toxicity is poisoning from methanol. Symptoms include a decreased level of consciousness, poor coordonation, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a specific smell on the breath. It is characterized by acute loss of visual function around 12 to 24 hours after ingestion of methanol. The ocular manifestations of acute methyl alcohol intoxication include decreased visual acuity, areflexic mydriasis, optic nerve atrophy with possibility of complete blindness. Treatment of methanol poisoning include fomepizole or ethanol. Case report. Patient P., 40 years old. He had addressed to Emergy Department 10 hours after ingestion of methanol. He presented with blurred vision and fatigue. He had no previous history of ophthalmologic problems. The VA was 0,01 in both eyes. Intraocular pressure in both eyes were normal. By ophthalmoscopy, optic disc hyperemia and lack of Optic Nerve Head border. Toxicologist established diagnosis of methanol poisoning after 1 hour. The patient was treated with Dexamethasone 32 mg and cardiac drugs. Despite all treatment that was administered, patient died in 2 hours after he was addressed to hospital. Conclusions. Optic neuropathy is a severe diagnosis that should be established in time. Early treatment instituted by a serious medical team is essential to avoid complications.