Introduction: Also known as wood alcohol Colorless, volatile liquid, odour similar to alcohol, burning taste.

Methyl Alcohol

Dr.J.A.DabhiResident

S.B.K.S.M.I.R.CGujarat

Site of absorptiono Skin o GITo Lungs

Metabolism:Methanol

Formaldehyde

Formic Acid

Metabolic Acidosis

Formaldehyde 33 times more toxic than methanol. Formic Acid is 6 times more toxic than methanol.

Renal Toxicity Distributed in the tissues having high water content, high conc. Is found in vitreous body and optic nerve, hence causes optic neuritis.

Elimination About 80% excreted unchanged from lungs. 3-5% excreted unchanged in urine

Signs/Symptoms Produces symptoms of drunkenness like ethyl alcohol. Effects are more prolonged. Appearance of symptoms: 1 hour – 24 hours

General signs of poisoning Odour present in breath. Effects on CNS is well marked Delirium, coma may last for 2-3 days Toxic effects on liver, kidney and nervous system.

Urine is strongly acidic and contain acetone and trace of albumin. Metabolic acidosis: Due to excess of lactic acid and respiratory depression

Pupils: Dilated and fixed Photophobia, blurred vision Central & peripheral scotoma Decreased light perception Sudden loss of vision or complete blindness due to optic neuritis may occur.

Retinal ganglion cells and optic disc shows degenerative changes. In fatal cases: Convulsions Death may occur from respiratory depression

Fatal Dose: 60-120 ml

Fatal Period: 24-36 hours or can be delayed for 2-4 days

Cause of death: Death is mainly due to metabolic acidosis resulting from production of organic acids mainly, Formic Acid. CNS depression leading to respiratory depression.

Treatment Gastric lavage: 5% Sod.Bic Ethyl Alcohol 50% 1ml/kg i.v. every 2 hours for 5 days. Maintain blood alcohol level of 100-150 mg%

Methyl Alcohol Ethyl Alcohol

Catalase

Unchanged Methanol Excretion

Acetaldehyde

Haemodialysis is the treatment of choice. Folic acid: 50-75 mg/ 4 Hrs increases elimination of formic acid. Dextrose, Vit.B1, phosphate

Maintain serum electrolyte to optimum level. Head low position. Keep airways clear.

Post-mortem Appearance Marked cyanosis Ab of PM clotting of blood Purple color due to pyridine Liver: fatty changes Kidney: tubular necrosis

Circumstances Accidently. Non availability of beverages containing ethyl alcohol.