Accidental dapsone ingestion leading to methemoglobinemia in a child: A case report

Abstract

Dapsone is a sulfone antibacterial drug used in the treatment of Leprosy and common skin conditions such as acne. Known to cause hypersensitivity syndromes apart from adverse effects such as tachycardia, tachypnea, vomiting, hemolytic anemias and seizures.Ingestion of large amounts of Dapsone may lead to life-threatening toxicity. We hereby report a case of a 4 years old boy who presented with tachypnea, cyanosis and altered sensorium post accidental dapsone ingestion of about 1500 mg. With the utilization of pulse oximetry, blood gas analysis and co-oximetry, child was found to have severe Methemoglobinemia secondary to Dapsone which was managed using Methylene blue and ascorbic acid.

Keywords

• dapsone
• methemoglobinemia
• toxicity
• methylene blue