An unusual case of hypoxia from benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia

Ann Thorac Surg. 1999 Jun;67(6):1776-8. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(99)00238-6.

Abstract

Hypoxemia during bronchoscopy occurs frequently. It can usually be managed by supplemental oxygen and bronchodilators or, in some cases, occasionally stopping the procedure. Benzocaine spray is commonly used as a topical anesthetic agent during bronchoscopy. However, it has been associated with the development of methemoglobinemia. The following is a case report of hypoxia during bronchoscopy from benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia and its management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anesthetics, Local / adverse effects*
  • Benzocaine / adverse effects*
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia / etiology*
  • Male
  • Methemoglobinemia / chemically induced*
  • Methemoglobinemia / drug therapy
  • Methylene Blue / therapeutic use
  • Pulmonary Atelectasis / therapy

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Methylene Blue
  • Benzocaine