Ingestion of Isobutyl Nitrite Leading to Methemoglobinemia: A Case Report
This case report highlights an occurrence of methemoglobinemia caused by the ingestion of liquid amyl nitrite, a substance often misused as a recreational drug. The patient in this case presented with cyanosis and elevated methemoglobin levels. Prompt administration of methylene blue successfully reversed the methemoglobinemia by reducing methemoglobin back to hemoglobin. This case emphasizes the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment in nitrite-induced methemoglobinemia, demonstrating methylene blue as a highly effective antidote. It also highlights the risks associated with amyl nitrite misuse and the crucial role of healthcare providers in managing this potentially life-threatening condition.
Authors
- Douglas R. Dixon (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0911-3717)
- Mohammed Atiqur Rahman (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6960-9004)
- Hanna Nour
- Larissa Dub
Institutions
- University of Central Florida (US)
- Osceola Regional Medical Center (US)
- AdventHealth Kissimmee (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2025-11-21
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.97471
- Primary Topic
- Methemoglobinemia and Tumor Lysis Syndrome
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- HCA Healthcare