Fatma ÖZDEMİR, Dicle BİRTANE, Zafer ÇUKUROVA
Türk Yoğun Bakım Dergisi - 2026;24(2):152-158
Objective: This case series aims to present the clinical characteristics, diagnostic processes, treatment strategies, and outcomes of patients with methanol intoxication treated in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: Eight male patients, aged between 31 and 75 years, who were treated in the ICU for methanol intoxication within three weeks, were included. Their medical histories, clinical findings, laboratory results, treatments, and prognoses were described. Results: The patients presented with a variety of symptoms such as visual loss, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, altered mental status, and respiratory distress. All patients had a history of consuming homemade alcohol, although in some cases the exact source and amount of alcohol were unknown. Arterial blood gas analyses revealed metabolic acidosis with elevated lactate levels. Negative blood ethanol levels, along with increased anion and osmolar gaps, supported the diagnosis of methanol intoxication. Patients received intravenous ethanol infusion, hemodialysis, and appropriate ICU supportive treatments. Three patients died (37.5%), while five survived. Conclusion: This case series emphasizes the importance of prompt intervention in emergencies such as methanol intoxication. Early diagnosis and administering antidotes like ethanol and hemodialysis improve survival rates. Preventing the production of counterfeit alcohol and raising public awareness of its dangers should be key priorities.
