Methanol is a commonly used organic solvent, the ingestion of which has severe potential ramifications. It is commonly found in antifreeze, perfumes, and solvents as well as in the production of formaldehyde.
Toxicity occurs as a result of intentional overdose or accidental ingestion.
The initial medical sequelae are often the most dramatic. Additionally, with the improvement in medical therapy, neurological complications have been recognized more frequently in the literature. This is possible because of early recognition of the toxicity and advances in supportive care. Hemodialysis has been the most important improvement, in addition to better management of acid-base disturbance. Sophisticated imaging techniques have enabled a better understanding of the clinical manifestations of methanol toxicity.