Background: In Norway methanol poisoning is rare. During the last four months of 2002, smuggled spirits containing about 20% methanol was distributed and ingested.
Material and methods: Epidemiological and clinical data concerning 33 patients admitted to hospital with methanol poisoning are presented.
Results: After a latency period of 12 to 72 hours, clinical features developed; visual disturbances and dyspnoea were particularly common. Diagnosis was based upon the anamnesis and clinical and laboratory findings. Calculation of anion gaps and osmolal gaps, were important diagnostic tools. Fomepizole was used as an antidote in 23 cases; 24 were dialysed. 28 patients were discharged, four of whom with permanent visual disturbances and signs of cerebral damage. Hospital mortality was 15% (five patients); eight patients died outside hospital with a post-mortem diagnosis of methanol poisoning.
Interpretation: Rapid diagnosis and treatment is mandatory in cases of methanol poisoning. The mixture of 20% methanol in ethanol resulted in a temporary block of methanol metabolism. The latency period therefore increased, leading to diagnostic problems.