Acute Methemoglobinemia Following Attempted Suicide by Dapson

This report describes the case of an otherwise healthy young adult female, with oral ingestion of 40 unknown tablets. Her clinical course included progressive bluish discoloration of lips and limbs, hemolysis and jaundice. A high PaO2 in the presence of cyanosis and dark blood lead to suspicion of methemoglobinemia. Laboratory results showed methemoglobin level to be 3.8 g/dL (38%). The etiology was traced to dapsone according to patient history; after 3 days it became evident that she had ingested 2 g dapsone in suicidal intent. The therapeutic and diagnostic approach in such patients is discussed. In conclusion, acute methemoglobinemia is an uncommon but potentially treatable disorder.