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Methanol and Ethylene Glycol Poisoning

Toxic alcohol poisonings are characterized by severe metabolic acidosis, vision loss, and acute kidney failure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Methanol and Ethylene Glycol Poisoning?

Methanol (a component of antifreeze and counterfeit alcohol) is metabolized by alcohol dehydrogenase to formic acid, while ethylene glycol is converted into glycolic and oxalic acids. The main injury arises from these toxic metabolites and progresses to severe acidosis within hours.

Methanol causes retinal toxicity leading to blindness; in ethylene glycol poisoning, calcium oxalate crystals lead to kidney failure and hypocalcemia. An increased anion gap and osmolar gap support the diagnosis.

Treatment with fomepizole (or ethanol when fomepizole is unavailable) blocks alcohol dehydrogenase and prevents the formation of toxic metabolites. Hemodialysis removes both the parent compound and its metabolites.

Symptoms

Initial alcohol-like intoxication
Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain after 4-24 hours
Blurred vision and a snowfield sensation in methanol poisoning
Oliguria and flank pain in ethylene glycol poisoning
Kussmaul breathing and confusion
Coma, seizures and cardiac arrest in severe cases

Risk Factors

Consumption of counterfeit alcohol
Antifreeze ingestion (intentional or accidental)
Industrial methanol exposure
Ingestion of brightly colored antifreeze by children
Alcohol dependence
Poor storage practices

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services for any suspected toxic alcohol ingestion
  • Early treatment can prevent permanent blindness and renal failure
  • Blood gas, anion gap and osmolar gap monitoring is required
  • Transfer to a hospital with a hemodialysis center should be planned

Treatment Methods

01
Airway protection and intensive care admission
02
ADH inhibition with fomepizole or ethanol infusion
03
Correction of acidosis with sodium bicarbonate
04
Folic acid (in methanol), thiamine and pyridoxine (in ethylene glycol)
05
Hemodialysis (severe acidosis, high serum levels, organ damage)
06
Ophthalmology and nephrology consultation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.