Pulmonary toxicity following exposure to methylene chloride and its combustion product, phosgene.
Chemical paint removers containing methylene chloride are widely used in domestic and industrial settings where exposure to a heat source with conversion to phosgene is possible. We describe a case of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and subsequent hyperreactive airways following such an exposure. In addition, the various problems that have been associated with exposure to methylene chloride and phosgene are reviewed.
Snyder
R W
RW
Department of Internal Medicine, Abington Memorial Hospital, Pa.
Mishel
H S
HS
Christensen
G C
GC
D000328:Adult; D016535:Bronchial Hyperreactivity / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006261:Headache / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008752:Methylene Chloride / Q000506:poisoning*; D010705:Phosgene / Q000506:poisoning*; D011654:Pulmonary Edema / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011859:Radiography
D010705:Phosgene; D008752:Methylene Chloride