Not true about methyl alcohol poisoning: AIIMS 13
**Core Concept**
Methyl alcohol (methanol) poisoning is a toxic condition caused by the ingestion of methanol, a volatile, colorless, and flammable alcohol. Methanol is metabolized by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase into formaldehyde, which is then converted to formic acid, leading to tissue damage and metabolic acidosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Methanol poisoning is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. The key to managing methanol poisoning is to prevent the formation of formic acid by inhibiting the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase. This is typically achieved using fomepizole, a competitive inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase. Fomepizole is administered along with supportive care, including hemodialysis in severe cases.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Methanol poisoning is primarily characterized by central nervous system (CNS) depression, which is incorrect. While CNS depression can occur, methanol poisoning is more commonly associated with metabolic acidosis and visual disturbances.
**Option B:** Hemodialysis is the primary treatment for methanol poisoning, which is incorrect. While hemodialysis can be used in severe cases, the primary treatment is the administration of fomepizole to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase.
**Option C:** Methanol is metabolized into formaldehyde, which is then converted to formic acid, which is correct. This is the key pathophysiological mechanism underlying methanol poisoning.
**Option D:** Methanol poisoning is treated with ethanol, which is incorrect. Ethanol is not the primary treatment for methanol poisoning; instead, fomepizole is used to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Methanol poisoning can be prevented by ensuring that methanol-containing products are stored safely and out of reach of children and pets. In the event of ingestion, prompt medical attention is essential to prevent long-term damage.
**Correct Answer: C. Methanol is metabolized into formaldehyde, which is then converted to formic acid.**