TRANSDERMAL METHANOL INTOXICATION VIA FOLK MEDICINE

Introduction: Methyl alcohol (methanol) is an industrial solvent and toxic liquid used in such as anti-freezes, paint removers, cologne, perfumes and defroster and also it is the most used denaturant in spirits (methylated spirits) to make it unconsumable. Even oral route seems to be the only way for poisoning, in rare cases inhalation and transdermal routes are possible. We present a case report with transdermal exposure applied according to the folk remedial use of methylated spirit for analgesic effects. Case Report: A thirty-four year old woman was brought to the emergency department by her relatives with extreme fatigue, vomitting, difficulty in walking and sitting, rapid breathing and also confusion. Her laboratory tests suggested deep metobolic acidosis with high anyon gap. She was admitted to intensive care unit and received hemodialysis. After her treatment, she was fully recovered without any vision defisit. Conclusion: Prompt diagnosis and treatment are the keys to avoid sequels and deaths due to methanol intoxications by all routes. At least to avoid potential sources, harmful folk medicine applications are should be defined clearly and society-based measurements should be implemented.

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