An unusual case of hypoxia from benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia

Authors
Slaughter, MS Gordon, PJ Roberts, JC Pappas, PS
Citation
Ms. Slaughter et al., An unusual case of hypoxia from benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia, ANN THORAC, 67(6), 1999, pp. 1776-1778
Citations number
7
Categorie Soggetti
Cardiovascular & Respiratory Systems","Medical Research Diagnosis & Treatment
Journal title
ANNALS OF THORACIC SURGERY
ISSN journal
00034975 → ACNP
Volume
67
Issue
6
Year of publication
1999
Pages
1776 - 1778
Database
ISI
SICI code
0003-4975(199906)67:6<1776:AUCOHF>2.0.ZU;2-W
Abstract
Hypoxemia during bronchoscopy occurs frequently. It can usually be managed by supplemental oxygen and bronchodilators or, in some cases, occasionally stopping the procedure. Benzocaine spray is commonly used as a topical anes thetic agent during bronchoscopy. However, it has been associated with the development of methemoglobinemia. The following is a case report of hypoxia during bronchoscopy from benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia and its mana gement. (C) 1999 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.