A rare cause of acquired methemoglobinemia

Abstract

Methemoglobinemia is a life-threatening clinical condition with a favorable outcome when diagnosed and treated 
promptly. It should be suspected in patients with oxygen saturation of around 85% that does not improve despite 
supplemental oxygen therapy. We report the case of a 48-year-old male with acquired methemoglobinemia due to the consumption of complementary alternative medicine (Ayurvedic medication for chronic kidney disease), who had a good outcome on treatment with Methylene blue. In refractory cases not responding to methylene blue, exchange transfusion is an effective alternative treatment.