Clinical, Roentgenologic, and Physiologic Effects of Acute Chlorine Exposure

Abstract

Eighteen persons exposed accidently to chlorine gas were studied within 24 to 48 hours and serially over the ensuing 14 months. The study consisted of a clinical, roentgenologic, and physiologic evaluation of the immediate and long-term effects of chlorine on the respiratory tract. There were five chlorine plant workers and 13 nonworkers. Nearly all nonplant workers were clinically better within 30 days. Pulmonary function studies, however, showed a pattern of airway obstruction and hypoxemia which cleared entirely within three months. The plant workers involved showed persistent reductions in air flow 12 to 14 months later. This study is unique since the subjects were studied earlier than in previous similar studies.