Methemoglobinemia - acquired

Reviewed By David C. Dugdale III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department…more »

Definition

Methemoglobinemia is a blood disorder in which the body cannot reuse hemoglobin after it is damaged. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying molecule found in red blood cells. In some cases of methemoglobinemia, the hemoglobin is unable to carry oxygen effectively to body tissues.

Acquired methemoglobinemia results from exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, or foods.

The condition may also be passed down through families (inherited). See: Methemoglobinemia

References

Steinberg MH. Sickle cell disease and associated hemoglobinopathies. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 167.

Date Last Reviewed: 11/08/2008

Licensed from:

Toxic Methemoglobinuria Images

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Definition
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Methemoglobinemia - acquired

Definition

References

Toxic Methemoglobinuria Images

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