DP also causes irritation of the upper respiratory tract and rarely can cause airway obstruction. Respiratory effects occur at doses of 1-10 parts per million. Doses greater than 25 parts per million can be rapidly fatal. Toxicity varies with both the concentration of vapor and the length of exposure. Because of its low water solubility, patients often inhale significant amounts of vapor before symptoms appear.
History likely reveals multiple casualties with respiratory complaints.
Some patients also may report irritation of the eyes or skin. Victims likely will have been involved in a mass gathering or military event within the last 24 hours. Patients may report explosions, smoke, or a gas cloud. Patients inconsistently report the odor of newly mown hay. Exposure to low concentrations of DP causes chest discomfort or dyspnea.