Hydrocarbon Poisoning

Hydrocarbon includes:
Petrol, Kerosene, Lighter Fluid, Mineral turpentine, Paraffin Oil, Lubricating oil, Furniture Polishes, 2 stroke fuel, Diesel, White spirit.

Assessment:
1. Main complication is aspiration pneumonitis.
2. CNS toxicity can be evident, either by depressor or excitement.

Symptoms:
Coughing, Choking, respiratory distress, ataxia, drowsiness, coma, convulsions, persistent burping. 

Management:

1. Stabilizing the airway.
2. O2 inhalation
3. Early intubation, mechanical ventilation in patient in whom oxygenation is adequate or in patient who has severe respiratory distress or a decreased level of consciousness.
4. Precaution to minimize risk of vomiting and further aspiration.
5. Decontamination by removing involved clothing and thoroughly washing skin with soap water.
6. Gastric lavage is not indicated.
7. No antidote is available for hydrocarbon.
8. Steroids may be harmful
9. If there is aspiration pneumonitis -- than treatment is accordingly:
       Inj. Clindamycin or Inj Amoxicillin + Inj. Metronidazole.