Is elevated creatinine a reliable marker for methanol toxicity in nitromethane-containing model fuel ingestions in children?

Context: In the absence of a rapid serum methanol level estimation, it is difficult to assess the risk from unintentional childhood ingestion of model fuels containing methanol and nitromethane (MFNM). Previous reports have documented false elevations of serum creatinine from the nitromethane in these fuels, suggesting its utility as a readily available marker of significant methanol ingestion.

Method: We performed a 2-year retrospective chart review of cases of ingestion of MFNM in children, with both a methanol level and measured creatinine level.

Bivalirudin for anticoagulation in children.

Background: Thromboembolism in children is typically treated with unfractionated heparin (UH) or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). Both rely on antithrombin (AT) for their action. In addition, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a potentially serious complication of heparin use in children.