Sudden Sniffing Death Following Inhalation of Butane and Propane: Changing Trends

Abstract

Toxicologic information and published data under-represents the toxicity of butane and propane as well as the number of fatalities related to their use. A review of the literature, databases, two index cases and several regional fatalities indicate that butane and propane use has become a serious problem and may represent the most common sudden sniffing death hazard in the U.S.

Key Words:

• Inhalants
• Death
• Butane
• Propane