Simple screening tests for the emergency identification of methanol and ethylene glycol in poisoned patients.

We have developed simple and rapid screening tests for methanol and ethylene glycol in plasma of poisoned patients, based on the Toxi-Lab alcohol screening test. The compounds are first converted to formaldehyde, which diffuses from the patient's sample into a glass-fiber test sheet impregnated with Schiff's formaldehyde detection reagent. Subsequent exposure of the test sheet to acid and heat distinguishes formaldehyde from acetaldehyde. We recommend that samples giving positive results be analyzed by another technique to confirm the identity and concentration of the poison for use in prognosis and treatment.