Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Fire Victims

Abstract

During fires, the effects of heat and noxious effluents are cumulative in causing injury to the victims. Carbon monoxide (CO), which is invariably present as a toxic component of fire emissions, often acts synergistically with cyanide released by various materials. Clinical findings are variable, depending on the extent of external burns, upper airway and lung damage, and toxic exposure. Neuropsychiatrie symptoms and respiratory distress are common manifestations. Life-threatening complications, such as pulmonary oedema, may suddenly develop up to several days after the smoke exposure. Therapeutic measures include general supportive care as well as the treatment of bums and associated systemic toxicity. Arterial blood gases, carboxyhaemoglobin and cyanide levels should be monitored. Patients exposed to significant concentrations of CO require hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Suspected cyanide poisoning must be treated without the waiting for laboratory confirmation. Untimely or incorrect intervention may compromise the chances of survival and seriously affect the future health status of fire victims.

Categories of Adverse Health Effects from Indoor Air Pollution

“…Episodes of acute intoxi cation are common in all parts of the world [90][91][92], espe cially when there is inadequate ventilation. Treatment varies to some degree according to the other products of combustion, but always includes an attempt to displace CO from its complex with haemoglobin by hyperbaric oxygen [119]. There may be delayed encephalopathy fol lowing acute CO poisoning [93],…”