Asthma due to kerosene exposure: three case reports

Three families comprising 6 adults and 3 children experienced prolonged exposure to kerosene vapour as a result of accidental domestic oil storage tank spills in 3 separate incidents. All were previously well but within 6 to 8 weeks, 3 children and one adult developed asthma which has persisted for more than 2 years. The 5 remaining adults developed upper and lower respiratory tract symptoms (but not asthma) and symptoms of conjunctival irritation. Levels of kerosene vapour were measured in all rooms in one household and were within accepted toxicological limits. Kerosene vapour is not considered toxic. Asthma caused by kerosene vapour is previously undescribed.