Related Experiment Videos
Acute nickel carbonyl poisoning
D L Kurta1, B S Dean, E P Krenzelok
1Pittsburgh Poison Center Children's Hospital, Pittsburgh 15213.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Accidental nickel carbonyl (Ni(CO)4) exposure caused severe respiratory distress, requiring intensive oxygen therapy. Treatment with disulfiram and sodium diethyldithiocarbamate showed gradual patient improvement over 10 days.
Area of Science:
- Industrial Toxicology
- Occupational Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Nickel carbonyl (Ni(CO)4) is a highly toxic industrial chemical used in nickel refining and as a catalyst.
- Its toxicity is comparable to hydrogen cyanide, posing significant health risks.
- Occupational exposure can lead to severe morbidity and mortality.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old male experienced delayed, severe respiratory symptoms 24 hours after accidental occupational exposure to nickel carbonyl.
- Symptoms included shortness of breath, chest tightness, and paresthesias, with significantly decreased oxygen saturation.
- Elevated urine and serum nickel levels confirmed significant exposure.
Findings:
- The patient required prolonged high-flow oxygen and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for 4 days.
- Treatment involved disulfiram and subsequently sodium diethyldithiocarbamate (dithiocarb).
- Gradual clinical improvement was observed over a 10-day period.
Implications:
- Nickel carbonyl exposure can cause delayed, life-threatening respiratory complications.
- Prompt medical intervention, including oxygen support and chelation therapy, is crucial for managing severe cases.
- This case highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols in industries using highly toxic chemicals like nickel carbonyl.