Acquired Methemoglobinemia Following Nitrobenzene Poisoning: An Unusual Case Report

Tetta, Venkata Sarma Jayant; Suvvari, Tarun Kumar; Sagili, Sushmitha Reddy; Kata, Srinivasa Rajasekhar; Karangula, Sindhuja; Singh, Tejinder; Thomas, Vimal

Abstract

Methemoglobinemia is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the oxidation of hemoglobin iron from ferrous (Fe²⁺) to ferric (Fe³⁺) state, impairing its oxygen-carrying capacity. Acquired forms can be triggered by exposure to oxidizing agents, such as nitrobenzene. We present the case of a 32-year-old female who developed symptomatic methemoglobinemia following oral ingestion of a commercial stimulant product containing nitrobenzene. She presented with peripheral cyanosis, breathlessness, and hypoxia unresponsive to oxygen therapy. A diagnosis of methemoglobinemia was confirmed, and prompt administration of intravenous methylene blue led to rapid clinical improvement. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of acquired methemoglobinemia in the context of toxic exposure, especially when conventional respiratory or cardiac pathology is excluded. Methylene blue remains the first-line antidote, offering effective and timely reversal of symptoms.

Citation

Tetta, V. S. J., Suvvari, T. K., Sagili, S. R., Kata, S. R., Karangula, S., Singh, T., & Thomas, V. (in press). Acquired Methemoglobinemia Following Nitrobenzene Poisoning: An Unusual Case Report. Clinical Medicine Insights: Case Reports, 18, https://doi.org/10.1177/11795476251370548

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 5, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Aug 25, 2025
• Deposit Date: Sep 1, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 1, 2025
• Journal: Clinical Medicine Insights: Case Reports
• Electronic ISSN: 1179-5476
• Publisher: Libertas Academica
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 18
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/11795476251370548
• Keywords: cyanosis, methylene blue, hypoxia, nitrobenzene poisoning, toxicology, acute poisoning, methemoglobinemia, flower stimulant
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1372432
• Publisher URL: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/11795476251370548