Open AccessHydrofluorocarbons pneumonitis as a complication of inhalation injury following air‐conditioning repairs
Author(s) -
Abdul Malik Afifah Aqilah,
Ng Boon Hau,
Nik Abeed Nik Nuratiqah,
Abdul Hamid Mohamed Faisal,
Ban Andrea YuLin
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
respirology case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.304
H-Index - 9
ISSN - 2051-3380
DOI - 10.1002/rcr2.983
Subject(s) - medicine , thorax (insect anatomy) , inhalation , hypersensitivity pneumonitis , pneumonitis , air space , radiological weapon , complication , technician , air conditioning , radiology , surgery , anesthesia , lung , physics , electrical engineering , engineering , anatomy , aerospace engineering , thermodynamics
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.