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Local Anaesthetic Toxicity — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePain & Anxiety ControlLocal Anaesthetic ToxicityNDEB AFK

A patient develops circumoral numbness, tinnitus, and visual disturbances shortly after administration of a local anaesthetic. What is the most likely cause?

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Correct answer: A — Local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST)

Circumoral/perioral numbness, tinnitus, metallic taste, light-headedness, and visual disturbances are early central nervous system signs of local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST) from intravascular injection or overdose. If untreated, this can progress to seizures, loss of consciousness, respiratory depression, and cardiovascular collapse. Management includes stopping the injection, airway support, benzodiazepines for seizures, and lipid emulsion (Intralipid) for severe toxicity.

Reference: Malamed – Handbook of Local Anesthesia, 7th ed., 2020