Question

An 18-year-old woman presents to the hospital after aspiration with a large amount of paint thinner while painting her room. She is not showing any symptoms at the moment. The patient is kept under observation, six hours later she starts developing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. She reveals that she is involved in sniffing and snorting paint thinner from past three years. History of any other psychiatric or medical illness is negative. What is the most common complication associated with hydrocarbon intoxication?

A. Pneumonitis
B. Hepatic failure
C. Coma
D. Oesophageal tear
E. Dysrhythmias

Answer 1

The most common complication associated with hydrocarbon intoxication is pneumonitis, an inflammation of the lung tissue that can lead to severe respiratory issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most common complication associated with hydrocarbon intoxication, particularly with substances like paint thinner, is pneumonitis. This condition is an inflammation of the lung tissue that can occur after aspiration of chemicals. The latent period of 4-8 hours after exposure can progress to flu-like symptoms, which include nausea, cough, dyspnea, and eventually pulmonary edema. The patient in the question developed severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting several hours after aspiration, which is consistent with the progression of symptoms following hydrocarbon inhalation.