Siphoning diesel: a fatal mistake
- Author:
Leong Wei Cheng
;
Brian Cheong Mun Keong
- Publication Type:Case report
- Keywords:
Diesel;
siphon;
chemical pneumonitis;
oesophageal perforation;
pneumomediastinum
- MeSH:
Mediastinal Emphysema;
Lung Injury
- From:
The Medical Journal of Malaysia
2017;72(5):314-315
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Diesel is commonly used as fuel for engines and is distilled
from petroleum. Diesel has toxic potential and can affect
multiple organs. Exposure can occur after ingestion,
inhalation or through the dermal route. The practice of
siphoning diesel using a rubber tubing and the mouth is
common in rural communities. This can lead to accidental
ingestion and aspiration. Here we report a case of a patient
who accidentally ingested diesel during siphoning, which
caused extensive erosion of the oral cavity and oesophagus
leading to pneumomediastinum and severe chemical lung
injury. The patient responded well initially to steroids and
supportive care but required prolonged hospitalisation. He
developed complications of nosocomial infection and
succumbed 23 days after admission.
