Methanol poisoning induced acute onset parkinsonism, optic neuritis and peripheral neuropathy in a patient

Methanol poisoning is a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition. It can result in significant neurological toxicities such as optic neuritis, encephalopathy, ataxia, polyneuropathy and parkinsonism. Concomitant presence of optic neuritis, parkinsonism and peripheral neuropathy in a patient of methanol intoxication has been very rarely reported in the literature. We report a case of a young male who developed acute onset parkinsonism, optic neuritis and peripheral neuropathy with evidence of putaminal necrosis following methanol poisoning. Early therapy can salvage a patient as well as minimize potentially catastrophic complications. Despite adequate management, a significant proportion of patients do develop devastating neurological deficits, which plague them for the rest of their lives.