Methanol Test
Definition A test that measures the amount of methanol in the blood.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is performed to detect the presence of methanol in the body.
Methanol is sometimes drunk mistakenly or intentionally as a substitute for grain alcohol (ethanol). Its presence in blood and body fluids can cause osmolality and electrolyte disturbance leading to toxic effects. Of greatest concern is the fact that methanol is metabolized to formaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical that can damage the optic nerve causing blindness, the liver and the kidneys potentially causing death.
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