Toxicology of fires: an emerging clinical concern

As a wider variety of synthetic materials is used in buildings, the potential for poisoning from inhalation of products of combustion is increasing greatly. Research during the past few years has shown that the burning of plastics (insulation, furniture, carpeting, electric wiring covering, decorative items) results in the formation of large amounts of highly toxic chemicals. Clinicians treating victims of fires should be aware of the toxicological ramifications of combustion, including delayed pathophysiological sequellae. A case report and a review of some current hypotheses of fire-induced toxicity illustrate the current state of knowledge, as well as some uncertainties and controversies in fire toxicology.