In general, the term chemical pneumonitis or delayed pulmonary oedema is preferred. Other toxic effects on the lungs, such as pulmonary sensitisers, fibrogenic dusts, agents causing benign pneumoconiosis, methaemoglobin formers, chemical asphyxiants, simple asphyxiants, and cholinesterase inhibitors, are not considered in this hazard alert. With time, the gases may dissolve into the fluid, or react with it, to produce an irritation. As airway resistance increases due to mucus accumulation and smooth muscle contractions, chemical pneumonitis may develop further. An increased effort and rate of breathing becomes obvious.
Chemical pneumonitis can be a life threatening condition.
As the term 'delayed pulmonary oedema' indicates, that the condition is delayed . The main problem with chemical pneumonitis is that the delay pulmonary oedema may occur when the victim is away from medical care, with serious consequences in life expectancy. Prompt and appropriate medical treatment can save lives. In an accident at a Hong Kong University, a PhD student assisted in cleaning up a spill of acryloyl and methacrylic anhydride. About 12 hours later the student developed breathing difficulties, and was placed in intensive care.