Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: Inhalation of substances within the lungs is frequently associated with aspiration induced lung injury, which is either due to a direct toxic effect or stimulation of an inflammatory response. The present study was conducted to assess aspiration-induced lung injuries among acute drug poisoning patients. Materials & Methods: 108 patients with history of drug or chemical poisoningof both genders were included. Parameters such as poisoning pattern such as type, dose, route and interval between overdose, and presentation was recorded. Chest radiography was performed and positive findings on CXR were defined as the presence of consolidations, pleural effusion, abscess or empyema in the setting of acute respiratory symptoms. Results: Out of 108 patients, males were 68 and females were 40. Poisoning cause was accidental in 10, suicidal in 68 and overdose in 30. Number of drugs were single in 54, multiple in 36 and unknown in 18. AVPU responsiveness was alert in 38, voice in 35, pain in 25 and unresponsive in 10. Vomiting was positive in 60 and negative in 48. ETT time was <6 hours in 46, 6-12 hours in 24, 12-24 hours in 20 and >24 hours in 18. Chest x-ray infiltration were seen in upper lobe in 58, middle lobe in 32 and lower lobe in 18. ED management was performed with charcoal in 46, lavage+ charcoal in 57 and nonein 5. Conclusion: In most cases, poisoning cause was suicidal followed by accidental and overdose.