A case of pneumonitis induced by gasoline intoxication / 대한내과학회지

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.