Chemical pneumonitis is inflammation of the lung caused by aspirating or inhaling irritants. It is sometimes called a "chemical pneumonia", though it is not infectious. There are two general types of chemical pneumonitis: acute and chronic.
Irritants capable of causing chemical pneumonitis include vomitus, barium used in gastro-intestinal imaging, chlorine gas (among other pulmonary agents), Due to its low density, it is easily aspirated into the lungs, where it cannot be removed by the body. In children, if aspirated, the oil can work to prevent normal breathing, resulting in death of brain cells and permanent paralysis and/or brain damage.
Signs and symptoms
Acute:
- Cough
- Abnormal lung sounds (wet or gurgling sounds when breathing)
The following tests help determine how severely the lungs are affected:
- Blood gases (measurement of how much oxygen and carbon dioxide are in your blood)
- CT scan of chest
- Lung function studies (tests to measure breathing and how well the lungs are functioning)
- X-ray of the chest
- Swallowing studies to check if stomach acid is the cause of pneumonitis
Treatment
Treatment is focused on reversing the cause of inflammation and reducing symptoms. Corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation, often before long-term scarring occurs. Antibiotics are usually not helpful or needed, unless there is a secondary infection. Oxygen therapy may be helpful.