Toxic concentration

Serum methanol and ethylene glycol concentrations of more than 50 mg/dL (15.6 mmol/L for methanol, 8.07 mmol/L for ethylene glycol) are associated with severe toxicity in both adults and children.

Assays for methanol and ethylene glycol are not routinely available in most hospitals, but can be done by reference laboratories in most capital cities. Surrogate markers of exposure and toxicity are often required in the initial assessment period to make management decisions. These include calculations of the osmolar gap and anion gap, and the serum pH.