Methemoglobinemia suspected of being caused by excessive intake of leafy vegetables due to an unbalanced diet: A case report.

RATIONALE: Methemoglobinemia is commonly caused by acute toxic exposure. However, excessive consumption of certain foods may be a contributing factor. Although diet-induced methemoglobinemia has been reported in infants and young children, clinically significant cases suspected of being caused by an unbalanced diet in adults are rare.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 60-year-old female presented with persistent dizziness and difficulty walking following a fall.

DIAGNOSES: Arterial blood gas analysis revealed a methemoglobin level of 25%. Plain radiography confirmed a femoral fracture. A detailed medical history revealed an excessive intake of leafy green vegetables, leading to the diagnosis of diet-induced methemoglobinemia as the underlying cause.

INTERVENTIONS: The patient received conservative treatment, including normobaric oxygen therapy, which resulted in a decrease in methemoglobin levels within 16 hours of admission.

OUTCOMES: The patient was discharged on the 6th day of hospitalization and was transferred to another facility for the treatment of the left femoral neck fracture.

LESSONS: Excessive intake of leafy vegetables may induce methemoglobinemia and warrants careful consumption.