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[A case of dimethyl sulfate intoxication manifested by persistent dyspnea]
M Kinoshita1, S Kawaguchi, E Higuchi
1First Department of Internal Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Japan.
Nihon Kyobu Shikkan Gakkai Zasshi
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Dimethyl sulfate (DMS) vapor exposure caused severe respiratory tract inflammation and stenosis. Corticosteroids and antibiotics effectively treated the resulting airway lesions and secondary pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pulmonology
- Medical Chemistry
Background:
- Dimethyl sulfate (DMS) is a highly toxic industrial chemical.
- Accidental exposure can lead to severe respiratory complications.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old man presented with persistent dyspnea after DMS vapor exposure.
- Imaging revealed diffuse lung infiltrates and bronchial wall thickening.
- Bronchoscopy showed tracheobronchial stenosis and bronchiolar inflammation.
Findings:
- Transbronchial biopsy confirmed inflammatory involvement from the trachea to bronchioles.
- Antibiotics were effective for secondary pneumonia.
- Corticosteroid therapy significantly improved airway stenosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the severe pulmonary toxicity of dimethyl sulfate.
- Prompt diagnosis and combined corticosteroid and antibiotic treatment are crucial.
- Serial bronchoscopy is valuable for monitoring treatment efficacy in DMS-induced airway injury.