Risks of Using Industrial Alcohol on Wounds: A Parent's Concern

Inquiring about the harms of industrial alcohol?

Hello: Recently (on July 19), my 10-year-old son sustained a forehead abrasion that removed a layer of skin.
I used 10 c.c of medicinal alcohol (95%) diluted with water to make 100 c.c for cleaning the wound.
On the evening of July 22, my husband mentioned that it might be industrial alcohol, which could contain methanol.
I would like to know if this could lead to methanol poisoning for my son, considering he has applied it to the wound 2-3 times.

Dai Xiaojie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/23

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

The active ingredient in rubbing alcohol is ethanol, which is typically diluted with water in a 1:3 ratio for disinfection purposes.
Rubbing alcohol can be purchased at pharmacies.
For general wound disinfection, povidone-iodine solution or saline can be used.
Industrial alcohol contains methanol, which is metabolized in the liver by alcohol dehydrogenase into formaldehyde and then into formic acid, but this process is slower, occurring at about one-fifth the rate of ethanol metabolism.
Acute toxicity arises from these metabolic products rather than from methanol itself.

Early clinical symptoms of methanol poisoning include characteristic changes in the retina and worsening vision, as well as significant metabolic acidosis indicated by an increased anion gap, which may manifest as tachycardia, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, generalized weakness, unsteady gait, and enhanced deep tendon reflexes.
In severe cases, individuals may experience confusion and rigidity.
The effects of methanol on the nervous system and eyes are particularly notable manifestations of poisoning.

The range of methanol poisoning can vary significantly; ingestion of 4 cc of pure methanol can lead to blindness, while 15 cc of 40% methanol can be fatal.
Blood concentration levels can be monitored for assessment.
If your child used rubbing alcohol, it is unclear whether it was ethanol or methanol, but it should not pose a significant risk when applied to the skin, as absorption is minimal.
If poisoning were to occur, the aforementioned symptoms would likely be present, but as long as you monitor for these signs, there should be no cause for concern.
Industrial alcohol is generally used for counterfeit alcohol and industrial purposes and is rarely found in pharmacies.
This is my response; I hope it meets your satisfaction.

Reply Date: 2003/07/23

More Info

Using industrial alcohol, particularly if it contains methanol, on wounds poses significant health risks, especially for children. Methanol is a toxic substance that can lead to serious health complications, including methanol poisoning, which can affect the central nervous system and lead to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, can result in blindness or death.

In your case, if the alcohol used was indeed industrial alcohol containing methanol, there is a risk of toxicity, especially since your son applied it to an open wound. However, the risk of methanol poisoning from topical application is generally lower than ingestion, as the skin acts as a barrier. Nevertheless, the absorption of methanol through broken skin can still occur, and the cumulative effect of repeated applications could increase the risk.

The symptoms of methanol poisoning may not appear immediately, as they can take hours to develop. If your son begins to show any unusual symptoms such as confusion, difficulty breathing, or visual disturbances, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
To address your concerns, here are some steps you should consider:
1. Immediate Medical Consultation: Given the potential exposure to methanol, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend monitoring for symptoms or conducting tests to ensure your son’s safety.

2. Avoid Industrial Alcohol: In the future, avoid using industrial alcohol for any medical purposes. Instead, use products specifically designed for wound care, such as antiseptic solutions that are safe for topical use on children. These products are formulated to be effective against bacteria while minimizing the risk of irritation or toxicity.

3. Educate on Safe Practices: It’s essential to educate yourself and your family about the differences between industrial and medical alcohol. Industrial alcohol is often not safe for personal care and can contain harmful additives, including methanol.

4. Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye on your son for any signs of distress or unusual behavior. If he exhibits any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical care.

5. First Aid Training: Consider taking a first aid course that includes information on how to properly treat wounds. This knowledge can empower you to handle similar situations in the future more effectively.

In summary, while the risk of methanol poisoning from topical application is lower than from ingestion, it is not negligible, especially with repeated use. Consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action to ensure your son’s safety and to receive guidance on appropriate wound care practices.

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