Hydrofluorocarbons pneumonitis as a complication of inhalation injury following air‐conditioning repairs

Abstract Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) pneumonitis is an uncommon cause of inhalation injury. HFCs are a group of chemicals predominantly used for refrigeration and cooling. A 19‐year‐old air‐conditioning technician developed acute onset of dyspnoea and chest tightness while servicing an air conditioner i...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Afifah Aqilah Abdul Malik, Boon Hau Ng, Nik Nuratiqah Nik Abeed, Mohamed Faisal Abdul Hamid, Andrea Yu‐Lin Ban
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2022-07-01
Series:Respirology Case Reports
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/rcr2.983
Description
Summary:Abstract Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) pneumonitis is an uncommon cause of inhalation injury. HFCs are a group of chemicals predominantly used for refrigeration and cooling. A 19‐year‐old air‐conditioning technician developed acute onset of dyspnoea and chest tightness while servicing an air conditioner in a confined space. We diagnosed him with HFC pneumonitis based on the history of exposure and the high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) thorax findings. He was treated with steroids and supportive oxygen therapy. He recovered fully after 5 days of hospitalization and was discharged. Review at 2 weeks in the outpatient setting showed significant radiological improvement on HRCT thorax.
ISSN:2051-3380