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Methanol Poisoning : Six Tourists Lost Their Lives

Methanol Poisoning : Six Tourists Lost Their Lives

Six tourists tragically lost their lives in Laos due to suspected methanol poisoning which has raised global alarm.

  • Methanol Poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that arises when methanol, a type of alcohol widely used in industrial applications, is ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
  • Methanol’s toxic effects emerge after the body metabolises it into harmful compounds like formaldehyde and formic acid.
  • These byproducts can wreak havoc on the nervous system, optic nerves and other vital organs.
  • It typically occurs when counterfeit or illicit alcohol, often containing methanol, is consumed instead of ethanol, the type of alcohol found in beverages.
  • In the body, methanol is metabolised by the liver enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase into formaldehyde and then into formic acid, both of which are toxic.
  • Methanol poisoning can indeed be fatal if left untreated. The toxic byproducts lead to complications.
  • Metabolic Acidosis: A dangerous drop in blood pH levels.
  • Optic Nerve Damage: Potentially resulting in partial or complete blindness.
  • Central Nervous System Depression: Causing confusion, coma or death.