Intoxicación por metanol

Abstract

Methanol poisoning can occur unnoticed, by the ingestion of adulterated alcoholic beverages. In general, it is a rare entity, however, an increase in incidence has been reported during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methanol poisoning represents a medical emergency as it can cause severe damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems, as well as metabolic acidosis, acute kidney injury, and even death. This article presents the case of a patient who inadvertently developed methanol intoxication after consuming presumably adulterated alcoholic beverages. In the brain, hemorrhagic necrosis of both putamen nuclei was demonstrated, in addition to presenting with bilateral optic neuritis and peripheral polyneuropathy. He was managed with intravenous steroid pulses, which significantly improved his visual, sensory, and motor function. In the present case there were no fatal complications and presented a good response to treatment, however, the case highlights the need for better regulation in the production and marketing of alcoholic beverages in our country, and on the other hand, to invite consumers to take more precautions in the consumption of alcoholic beverages of dubious quality or origin. Keywords: Poisoning; methanol; nervous system; optic neuritis; polyneuropathy.