Phosphine exposure from a methamphetamine laboratory investigation.
BACKGROUND
Law enforcement personnel may be exposed to a variety of hazardous materials during investigation of clandestine methamphetamine laboratories.


METHODS
A 28-year-old forensic specialist investigating a methamphetamine lab was exposed to phosphine without respiratory protection at approximately 2.7 ppm for 20-30 minutes. Shortly following exposure she developed dizziness, cough, headache, and diarrhea, although initial medical evaluation within 1-2 hours was unremarkable. Pulmonary examination at 4 and 7 days postexposure revealed bilateral rhonchi. The cough was worse with exertion, and persisted despite beta-agonist and steroid inhaler treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
This is apparently the first published case of symptomatic occupational phosphine exposure in a law enforcement officer during investigation of a methamphetamine laboratory. If phosphine exposure is suspected, the possibility of delayed pulmonary toxicity should be recognized.
Burgess
J L
JL
Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Arizona, Tucson 85719-4197, USA. jburgess@u.arizona.edu
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005554:Forensic Medicine / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000187:drug effects*; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008694:Methamphetamine / Q000138:chemical synthesis*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010720:Phosphines / Q000506:poisoning*
D010720:Phosphines; D008694:Methamphetamine; C044646:phosphine