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Updated: Jul 1, 2026

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Halogenated Agent Delivery in Porcine Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via an Intensive Care Unit Type Device
Published on: September 24, 2020
[Acute lung injury caused by sevoflurane: a case report]
Summary
This case report details a rare case of acute lung injury in a teenager after sevoflurane anesthesia during circumcision. It highlights the potential for this common anesthetic to cause serious lung complications, urging clinical awareness.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pulmonology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Sevoflurane is a commonly used inhalational anesthetic agent.
- While generally safe, rare adverse events associated with sevoflurane anesthesia can occur.
- Acute lung injury (ALI) is a serious respiratory complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of drug-induced acute lung injury (ALI) following sevoflurane anesthesia.
- To analyze the clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings of this specific case.
- To review the literature and clarify the diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses for sevoflurane-induced ALI.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 16-year-old male patient.
- Sevoflurane-based general anesthesia for circumcision.
- Analysis of clinical presentation, imaging, and laboratory data.
- Systematic literature review.
Main Results:
- The patient developed acute lung injury post-anesthesia.
- Clinical and diagnostic findings were consistent with drug-induced ALI.
- Literature review provided context for diagnosis and differential diagnoses.
Conclusions:
- Sevoflurane, despite its safety profile, can rarely induce acute lung injury.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for sevoflurane-induced ALI in relevant cases.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for patients presenting with ALI after sevoflurane anesthesia.
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