Clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of acute methanol poisoning: experiences in an outbreak

Aims: The aim of this study was to examine the clinical features of acute methanol poisoning to better understand its pathophysiology. Methods: A retrospective study was performed in 52 patients with acute methanol poisoning. Patient characteristics and test results were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 52 patients, ranging from 20-79 years of age, consumed between 5 and 500 mL of alcohol-based fuel, equivalent to 3.3-329.5 g of methanol. Of the 52 patients, 49 were discharged without sequelae, one patient experienced decreased visual acuity, and two patients died after comprehensive treatment. Central nervous system (CNS) disorders, visual disturbances, and gastrointestinal symptoms were found in 46 (88%), 20 (38%), and 34 (65%) patients upon admission, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that coma, dyspnea, pH, and anion gap (AG), along with calcium, potassium, creatinine, and blood sugar levels, were correlated with severity of methanol poisoning and associated with poor patient outcomes. Conclusion: Acute oral methanol poisoning can lead to nerve damage, metabolic acidosis, and gastrointestinal injuries. Most patients recovered after timely and effective comprehensive treatment.