Korean J Med.  2009 Apr;76(4):494-498.

A case of pneumonitis induced by gasoline intoxication

• Kim JK
• Jang TW
• Jung MH
• Oak CH
• Moon DS
• Jang LL

Abstract

Hydrocarbons are a broad group of organic bodies consisting of hydrogen and carbon. They are commonly found in the environment in the form of gasoline (e.g., butane and propane) and are also used in stain removers, adhesives, lubricants, and a variety of paints. Ingestion of the compound accounts for approximately 3% of all poisoning cases in the United States, but such reports of poisoning are rare in Korea. Hydrocarbon poisoning has many adverse effects. In addition to potentially causing major damage to the respiratory and central nervous systems, direct exposure to hydrocarbons can also cause cardiac arrhythmia, hepatic dysfunction, renal failure, neuropathy, and other injuries. We present the case of a 20-year-old soldier who accidentally ingested a small amount of gasoline. He developed chemical pneumonitis, but recovered with no serious complications.

Keyword

Chemical pneumonitis; Gasoline (Hydrocarbon)

MeSH Terms

Adhesives
Arrhythmias, Cardiac
Butanes
Carbon
Central Nervous System
Eating
Gasoline
Humans
Hydrocarbons
Hydrogen
Korea
Lubricants
Military Personnel
Paint
Pneumonia
Renal Insufficiency
United States
Young Adult
Adhesives
Butanes
Carbon
Gasoline
Hydrocarbons
Hydrogen
Lubricants