Role of Steroids in Paint Thinner Induced Chemical Pneumonitis

Abstract

Paint thinners are organic hydrocarbons that contain a mixture of chemicals such as acetone, toluene, and xylene. Thinner poisoning is most common in children due to accidental ingestion. Acute poisoning can lead to various systemic manifestations such as chemical pneumonitis, arrhythmia, dermatitis, and metabolic acidosis. Chronic toxicity leads to encephalopathy and weakness. Usually, management of chemical pneumonitis following hydrocarbon aspiration is symptomatic and the role of steroids is controversial. We report the case of a 47-year-old female who presented with ingestion of paint thinner with suicidal intention and developed chemical pneumonitis. She was initially managed symptomatically but due to persistent symptoms, was started on intravenous steroids and antibiotic. The patient showed symptomatic and radiological resolution.

Keywords

• aspiration
• chemical pneumonitis
• hydrocarbons
• steroid treatment