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Merck

Methemoglobinemia induced by topical anesthetic (benzocaine).

Radiotherapy and oncology : journal of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (1990-07-01)
L A Linares, T Y Peretz, J Chin
ABSTRACT

Methemoglobinemia is a condition in which more than 2% of the hemoglobin of the blood has been oxidized to the ferric form, a molecule which is incapable of binding oxygen or carbon dioxide. Clinically, the patient appears lethargic, cyanotic, and does not respond to oxygen. We describe a patient with esophageal carcinoma who developed severe methoglobinemia following application of benzocaine in spray for local anesthesia prior to intraluminal irradiation. Review of the literature is presented.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description

Sigma-Aldrich
Ethyl 4-aminobenzoate, 98%
Supelco
Benzocaine, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material
Sigma-Aldrich
Benzocaine, ≥99% (HPLC)
Benzocaine, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard