Question:

Methemoglobinemia is due to:

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Methemoglobinemia is commonly linked to nitrate-contaminated well water, especially dangerous for infants. - Treatment often involves reducing agents such as methylene blue.
Updated On: Mar 11, 2025
  • Excess of nitrate concentration in drinking water
  • Excess of sulphate concentration in drinking water
  • Excess of fluoride concentration in drinking water
  • Excess of lead in drinking water
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Definition of Methemoglobinemia

  • Methemoglobinemia (sometimes called “blue baby syndrome”) arises when hemoglobin is oxidized to methemoglobin, which cannot effectively carry oxygen.

Step 2: Role of Nitrates

  • High nitrate levels in drinking water, especially in infants, lead to the formation of methemoglobin in the blood.
  • Sulphates, fluorides, or lead do not typically trigger methemoglobinemia; they cause other disorders.

Hence, excess nitrate in drinking water is the primary cause of methemoglobinemia.

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