Inhalation injury after capsaicin exposure.
Pepper spray is defined as a non-lethal agent used in riot control and personal self-defense. Oleoresin capsicum (OC), derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, commonly referred to as hot peppers or chilies, is the active agent used in many of these defense sprays. Although generally assumed to be safe and effective, the consequences of OC cannot be predicted with certainty. Nationwide there have been numerous reports of pepper spray-related injuries, including officers injured in pepper spray-related training exercises. This report details one officer's experience.
Miller
James Jason
JJ
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Louisville School of Medicine and the Frazier Rehab Institute, KY, USA. jj.miller@louisville.edu
Skolnick
Judah
J
D000328:Adult; D016084:Bronchoconstriction; D002000:Bronchospirometry; D002211:Capsaicin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004417:Dyspnea / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D019570:Inhalation Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D035846:Law Enforcement / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D016495:Police
D002211:Capsaicin