Multi-Organ System Injury from Inhalant Abuse

Abstract

We present an illustrative case of a 24-year old male who developed cardiovascular and multi-organ system toxicity after inhaling a keyboard dust cleaner containing a halogenated hydrocarbon. In the field, the patient demonstrated neurotoxic effects in addition to electrocardiographic changes concerning for toxic myocarditis. We discuss the types of hydrocarbons, methods of abuse, and toxic effects of their inhalation including “sudden sniffing death” from myocardial sensitization.

Key words:

• inhalant abuse
• hydrocarbon abuse
• myocardial sensitization