Benzocaine-Induced Methemoglobinemia

Benzocaine, a topical anesthetic, has long been used as an analgesic for various otolaryngology-related conditions. First reported in 1955, benzocaine has long been known to be a cause of methemoglobinemia (1). This product is now readily available over the counter, and topical benzocaine is being routinely used for chronic oral and oropharyngeal pain in the head and neck cancer population. We herein report an interesting case of methemoglobinemia in a head and neck cancer patient and discuss this condition, its diagnosis, and treatment.
Source: The Journal of Emergency Medicine - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: Visual Diagnosis in Emergency Medicine Source Type: research