Eyes, blindness from methanol

Methanol is not classified as carcinogenic, but can be acutely toxic if ingested 100—250 mL may be fatal or result in blindness. The principal physiological effect is acidosis resulting from oxidation of methanol to formic acid. Methanol is a general irritant to the skin and mucous membranes. Prolonged skin contact with methanol vapor or Hquid can cause dermatitis. Methanol vapor can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation, nausea, headaches, and dizziness. 

Methyl alcohol (methanol, wood alcohol [CAS 67-56-1]) Mildly Irritating to eyes and skin. Systemic toxicity may result from absorption by all routes. Toxic metabolites are formate and formaldehyde. A CNS depressant. Signs and symptoms Include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, metabolic acidosis, and coma. Visual disturbances (optic neuropathy) range from blurred vision to blindness. See also p 260. 

Toxicology May irritate skin, eyes possible burns to eyes and allergic reaction short inh. exposure may cause drowsiness, nose/throat irritation, iung/kidney in]ury prod, generates methanol (overexposure may cause blindness and CNS damage) TSCA listed Precaution Keep away from heaf, sparks, open flame incompaf. wifh materials that react with water... 

Methanol is toxic under acute and chronic exposure. Poisoning may occur from ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. Methanol is an irritant to mucous membrane, skin, and eyes. Liquid contact and vapor exposure and inhalation should be avoided. The most commonfy known poisoning effect of methanol is visual impairment or blindness, often as a result of ingestion. Methanol is also a teratogen and a narcotic [54]. 

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