Tuberc Respir Dis.  2009 Aug;67(2):148-153.

Two Cases of Chemical Pneumonitis Induced by Hydrocarbon Aspiration

• Noh DH
• Kim HR
• Cho KH
• Kim D
• Shin SN
• Shin JH
• Song JS
• Hwang KE
• Kim SY
• Kim HJ
• Yang SH
• Jeong ET

Abstract

Chemical pneumonitis induced by hydrocarbon aspiration is rare in Korea. Kerosene is a petroleum distillate with low viscosity and high volatility. We report two adult cases of chemical pneumonitis caused by the accidental aspiration of kerosene. They were treated successfully with antibiotics and systemic corticosteroids, and recovered without complications.

Keyword

Hydrocarbon aspiration; Kerosene; Chemical pneumonitis

MeSH Terms

Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Adult
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Humans
Kerosene
Korea
Petroleum
Pneumonia
Viscosity
Volatilization
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Kerosene
Petroleum

Figure

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  Figure 1 (A) Chest X-ray shows consolidation on right lower lung field at admission. (B) Chest CT shows wedge-shaped inhomogenous consolidation on right middle lobe at admission. (C, D) Bronchoscopic findings demonstrates erythematous mucosal swelling on trachea and right middle lobar bronchus at admission.

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  Figure 2 Follow-up chest radiography shows improved lesion.

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  Figure 3 (A) Chest X-ray shows mass-like density with distinct margin on right lower lung field at admission. (B) Chest CT shows air bronchogram and consolidation on right middle lobe at admission. (C) On the 2nd hospital day, Bronchoscopic finding demonstrates fresh red blood on right middle lobe lateral segment.

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  Figure 4 (A) On the 9th hospital day, follow-up chest radiography shows improved lesion. (B) Bronchoscopic finding demonstrates no bleeding and newly detected mucosal elevated lesion on right middle lobar bronchus.

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