Diffusing capacity for lung carbon monoxide [DLCO] in chemical lung injuries due to the use of mustard gas in the poisoned soldiers of Iran-Iraq war 2006

ABSTRACT

To assess the Mustard gas exposure effects on pulmonary system, particularly on diffusing capacity for lung carbon monoxide [DLCO] and simple spirometry. Sixty-five sulfur mustard- poisoned soldiers from Mostazafan and Janbazan organization were referred to our center in 2005. Complete history, physical examination, chest X ray, Echocardiography, Arterial blood gas, high - resolution computerized tomography, diffusion capacity for lung carbon monoxide and spirometry of these were performed and compared this result with normal value. The mean value of indices in studied injured subjects was Spirometry forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1] = 70.4, Forced vital capacity [FVC] = 66.5, EFE 25-75=81.1, FEV1/FVC=101.9, Flow 25% = 28.7, Flow 50%= 72.9, Flow 75%= 100.1, Sample volume Functional residual capacity of lungs [FRC] = 131.5, residual volume [RV] = 157.3, RV/TLC= 169.1, Total lung capacity [TLC] = 91.3, KCO= 131.6, TLCO= 116.3. No significant correlation was observed between TLCO values with HRCT, echocardiography, ABG and spirometry values [P>0.05]. We recommend TLCO and RV/TLV tests to assess severity of Injuries as there is no a suitable criterion to measure the real consequences of mustard gas on affected combatants and Biological markers are also needed to determine cause- effect relations