Journal article
Normal physiologic carboxyhemoglobinemia of neonate masquerading as carbon monoxide poisoning
The American journal of emergency medicine, Vol.96, pp.300.e1-300.e2
10/2025
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2025.06.026
PMID: 40555583
Abstract
Carbon monoxide toxicity is a common concern in emergency departments. This case report describes a neonate with a falsely elevated carboxyhemoglobin level, initially raising concern for carbon monoxide exposure. The neonate was transferred to a tertiary care hospital and admitted, with hyperbaric oxygen therapy considered. Ultimately, it was determined that actual carbon monoxide exposure was unlikely, and the elevated carboxyhemoglobin was attributed to natural breakdown of fetal hemoglobin by heme oxidase. This case highlights the importance of considering this physiological phenomenon when evaluating elevated carboxyhemoglobin levels in neonates. Recognizing this led to the deferral of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, reducing unnecessary resource utilization and preventing undue stress for the family.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Normal physiologic carboxyhemoglobinemia of neonate masquerading as carbon monoxide poisoning
- Creators
- Jami Hagemann - Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of AmericaAndrew Kozminski - University of IowaSarah Miller - University of IowaCarly A. Theiler - University of IowaDaniel J. McCabe - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- The American journal of emergency medicine, Vol.96, pp.300.e1-300.e2
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.ajem.2025.06.026
- PMID
- 40555583
- NLM abbreviation
- Am J Emerg Med
- ISSN
- 0735-6757
- eISSN
- 1532-8171
- Publisher
- Elsevier Inc
- Language
- English
- Electronic publication date
- 06/16/2025
- Date published
- 10/2025
- Academic Unit
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics; Emergency Medicine; Pharmacy Practice and Science
- Record Identifier
- 9984833492102771
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