Plasmapheresis in severe methemoglobinemia following occupational exposure

摘要

Ferrous iron can be converted to ferric iron by oxidative stress which results in the formation of methemoglobin. Consequently, the oxygen dissociation curve is shifted to the left, which leads to tissue hypoxia and ultimately may cause death. Acquired methemoglobinemia can be due to a host of offending agents and chemicals including nitrites, local anesthetics, aniline and antimalarial drugs.