Acute Methemoglobinemia Associated with Ochronotic Valvular Heart Disease: Report of a Case

Abstract

We describe the first reported case of acute methemoglobinemia associated with ochronotic valvular heart disease. A 79-year-old man with ochronotic valvular heart disease experienced decreased urinary output starting 9 days after an operation. Thereafter, the patient's methemoglobin concentration acutely increased, indicating systemic cyanosis, while the arterial partial oxygen pressure (PaO₂) was maintained at around 200 mmHg. In patients with ochronotic valvular heart disease, acute methemoglobinemia may occur, as in cases of renal failure or oliguresis.

Key words

Cardiovascular surgery - heart valve surgery - heart disease

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