Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

In vitro Cell Culture Model for Toxic Inhaled Chemical Testing
Published on: May 8, 2014
Severe chemical pneumonitis following exposure to household bleach
James Patterson1, Vanessa Vallance2
1University Hospital Hairmyres, East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, UK james.patterson@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk.
Abstract:
A previously healthy man in his 30s presented to the emergency department in severe respiratory distress with an oxygen saturation of 75% after using a sodium hypochlorite-based household bleach to clean a bath. He was admitted to the intensive care unit and required a period of high-flow nasal oxygen but ultimately made a full recovery. Sodium hypochlorite can release toxic gases when mixed with acids or ammonia, but such severe illness following exposure to household bleach in isolation has not previously been reported in the literature. It is important for emergency providers to be aware of this possibility and report further cases to determine if this problem is more common than previously realised.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Pneumonia II: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Pneumonia I: Introduction

