ABSTRACT
Pulmonary irritants, simple asphyxiants, toxic products of combustion, lacrimating agents, and chemical asphyxiants comprise a diverse group of toxic gases capable of causing a variety of local and pulmonary reactions. The sources of these compounds are as varied, encompassing both naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals developed over the last 50 years. Treatment of smoke inhalation victims is primarily supportive, including decontamination and removal of the individual from the source. The compounds consist mostly of chemically invariable groups of brominated or chlorinated, simple or aromatic hydrocarbons that cause severe local, upper respiratory, and lower respiratory illness. Most of the agents are highly lipid-soluble powders. They are dissolved in organic solvents to effect aerosol delivery or burned and exploded for military use. Clinical chemistry analysis, hematology assays, and arterial blood gas determinations are not clinically useful indicators for Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
