Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia: Two case reports related to transesophageal echocardiography premedication

Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia is a potentially life-threatening complication. We report two cases of methemoglobinemia due to topical benzocaine spray used as premedication for transesophageal echocardiography. A high index of suspicion is needed for this readily treatable condition.

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Cardiovascular drugs and therapy 1998-07, Vol.12 (3), p.311-312
Main Authors: HO, R. T, NANEVICZ, T, YEE, R, FIGUEREDO, V. M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Administration, Oral
Anesthetics, Local - adverse effects
Benzocaine - adverse effects
Biological and medical sciences
Drug toxicity and drugs side effects treatment
Echocardiography, Transesophageal
Female
Humans
Medical sciences
Methemoglobinemia - chemically induced
Middle Aged
Pharmacology. Drug treatments
Premedication - adverse effects
Toxicity: blood
Citations: Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
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Description
Summary:Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia is a potentially life-threatening complication. We report two cases of methemoglobinemia due to topical benzocaine spray used as premedication for transesophageal echocardiography. A high index of suspicion is needed for this readily treatable condition.
ISSN:0920-3206
1573-7241
DOI:10.1023/A:1007778002540