A Rare Case of Occupational Aniline Poisoning: Management in a Limited-Facility Setting

Abstract

Introduction Cyanosis along with altered mental should bring all the possible ethiologies into her mind in a minimum of time, based on the trauma, medical, environmental, and occupational history of the patient. Poisoning with methemoglobinemia inducing agents is one of the most important differentials especially when a history of occupational exposure to these agents is present. Case Report The patient, a 41-year-old healthy woman and engineer, experienced symptoms after exposure to aniline leading to dizziness and weakness, prompting a visit to the emergency department with cyanosis and low oxygen saturation. Initial vital signs showed decreased oxygen levels and elevated respiratory rate with normal ABG values despite ongoing cyanosis. Patient required intubation, mechanical ventilation, and was diagnosed with ARDS based on chest X-ray findings. Management included IV diuretics, 100% oxygen, and antioxidant treatment in the ICU. Despite treatment, oxygen saturation remained at 88% on the first day. Conclusion This case is a reminder of the importance of taking occupational history and management of aniline toxicity in a setting where methylene blue, the drug of choice for aniline toxicity, is not available in the drug stock.