Search citation statements
Paper Sections
Citation Types
Year Published
Publication Types
Relationship
Authors
Journals
BACKGROUND This case report emphasizes the potential pulmonary toxicity of demulsifier gas, which is a widely used chemical. To our knowledge, this is the first documented instance of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) induced by inhalation of demulsifier gas. This report underscores the need for increased workplace safety and awareness regarding health risks associated with demulsifiers, particularly in industrial settings. Timely diagnosis and management of ARDS are crucial for improving patient outcomes, thus making this report significant for clinical practice and occupational health literature. CASE SUMMARY We present a rare case of acute demulsifier poisoning leading to ARDS in a previously healthy 69-year-old man. He presented with chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and dyspnea following a 30-minute exposure to demulsifier fumes in a poorly ventilated area. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral diffuse infiltrative shadows. Based on his exposure history and clinical findings, a diagnosis of ARDS due to demulsifier poisoning was confirmed. The patient required high-flow oxygen and intravenous norepinephrine upon admission and was subsequently intubated for mechanical ventilation. Following timely and effective multidisciplinary treatment interventions including emergency care, intensive care, and respiratory medicine, he achieved positive outcomes and was ultimately discharged. CONCLUSION This case underscores the critical importance of recognizing chemical exposure risks and their potential to cause severe respiratory complications.
BACKGROUND This case report emphasizes the potential pulmonary toxicity of demulsifier gas, which is a widely used chemical. To our knowledge, this is the first documented instance of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) induced by inhalation of demulsifier gas. This report underscores the need for increased workplace safety and awareness regarding health risks associated with demulsifiers, particularly in industrial settings. Timely diagnosis and management of ARDS are crucial for improving patient outcomes, thus making this report significant for clinical practice and occupational health literature. CASE SUMMARY We present a rare case of acute demulsifier poisoning leading to ARDS in a previously healthy 69-year-old man. He presented with chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and dyspnea following a 30-minute exposure to demulsifier fumes in a poorly ventilated area. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral diffuse infiltrative shadows. Based on his exposure history and clinical findings, a diagnosis of ARDS due to demulsifier poisoning was confirmed. The patient required high-flow oxygen and intravenous norepinephrine upon admission and was subsequently intubated for mechanical ventilation. Following timely and effective multidisciplinary treatment interventions including emergency care, intensive care, and respiratory medicine, he achieved positive outcomes and was ultimately discharged. CONCLUSION This case underscores the critical importance of recognizing chemical exposure risks and their potential to cause severe respiratory complications.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2025 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.