Methanol-induced Retinal Toxicity Patient Examined by Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract

Background

Methanol is a highly toxic substance used as an industrial solvent and automotive antifreeze. Human consumption of methanol may result in severe visual disturbances. Because optical coherence tomography (OCT) is very useful for evaluating retinal edema and nerve fiber swelling, we used OCT to examine a patient with methanol-induced retinal toxicity.

Case

A 37-year-old man who drank industrial alcohol (100 ml/day) for 4 days.

Observations

The retinal profiles were evaluated by OCT and fluorescein angiography during the course of treatment. OCT demonstrated peripapillary nerve fiber swelling and accumulation of intraretinal fluid in the acute phase. In the chronic phase, the retinal thickness was diffusely decreased. Steroid pulse therapy was not effective, and his visual acuity was 6/200 OD and 4/100 OS 2 years after the event.

Conclusion

OCT was very useful for evaluating the severity of the retinal edema and the temporal changes in the retinal profile. Jpn J Ophthalmol 2006;50:239–241 © Japanese Ophthalmological Society 2006