Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Smoke Inhalation in Veterinary Patients: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Vigh, Zsofia et al.
Plain-English summary
Smoke inhalation can be very harmful to pets because it introduces dangerous gases and hot particles into their lungs. This can lead to low oxygen levels and inflammation in their airways, making it hard for them to breathe properly. If a pet is suspected of having inhaled smoke, they need immediate oxygen therapy, even if their oxygen levels seem normal, as those readings can be misleading. Pets that show mild symptoms and respond well to initial treatment usually have a good chance of recovery, but those with severe symptoms may need more intensive care.
Abstract
Smoke contains a mixture of harmful gases, chemicals, and superheated particles. Inhalation of smoke causes generalized hypoxia and airway inflammation due to impaired oxygen transport and utilization, as well as thermal and chemical injury in the airways. Generally, treatment is supportive with oxygen therapy and airway management, including chest physiotherapy, bronchodilators, and nebulization. Immediate oxygen therapy is mandatory for all suspected smoke inhalation patients and should not be delayed pending diagnostic test results or due to "normal" oxygen saturation readings that can be falsely elevated in carbon monoxide intoxication. Smoke inhalation patients with mild clinical signs who respond well to initial stabilization generally have a favorable prognosis. However, patients with severe signs or progression despite initial stabilization may require more advanced or intensive care.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39235782/