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Archivos de Medicina de Urgencia de México

2025, Number 2-3

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Arch Med Urg Mex 2025; 17 (2-3)

Beyond the antidote: advances, limitations, and challenges in the timely diagnosis and management of methanol poisoning in the emergency setting

Bravo-Sombrerero M

Language: Spanish
References: 50
Page: 131-141
PDF size: 250.52 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Introduction: methanol poisoning is a rare but highly lethal medical emergency, mostly associated with the consumption of adulterated alcoholic beverages. Diagnosis is often delayed due to nonspecific initial symptoms and the limited availability of confirmatory tests.
Objective: to critically review the evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of methanol poisoning in the emergency setting.
Methodology: narrative review developed in accordance with the EQUATOR Network, the SANRA scale criteria, and the ICMJE guidelines. A literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and SciELO (2002–2025), including original articles, reviews, clinical guidelines, and relevant consensus statements.
Results: management focuses on early recognition, the use of antidotes (ethanol, fomepizole), bicarbonate therapy, folic acid, and hemodialysis. Diagnostic and therapeutic limitations remain significant in resource-limited countries.
Conclusion: timely and protocolized management reduces neurological and visual complications and remains a major challenge in vulnerable healthcare settings.


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