-2 :: Case - 10478 :: - Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
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Additional Discussion:
CO binds to Hgb 240X stronger than O2 making carboxyhemoglobin
Typical Sx: HA, Lethargy, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and SOB
TX is to displace CO with O2
T1/2 is 320 min on room air, 80 min on 100% O2, 23 min at 3atm 100% O2

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Discussion Author: James G. Smirniotopoulos, M.D.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a tasteless odorless gas produced by combustion of hydrocarbons. Common sources include automobile, truck, and bus engines; fireplaces; charcoal grills; and generators.

Incidence: The CDC reports > 15,000 non-fire related CO exposure/poisoning cases each year resulting in 480 deaths. December and January are the peak months for these events.
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CO poisoning in the home is very common after power failures - especially in cold climates - when generators are used indoors. Even a home generator in a garage can kill, when combustion fumes enter through a parially open door. Space heaters may also release CO into a room or tent.

Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, nausea, lethargy, confusion, shortness of breath, and coma.

Carbon monoxide is both cardiotoxic and neurotoxic. Lesions in the brain show a "selective vulnerability" for the medial lenticular nucleus (globus pallidus).

Treatment includes removal from the site/source of the exposure, oxygen, and hyperbaric therapy.

• CDC - - LINK - & - LINK -
• Detection of CO by Breathalyzer - - LINK -
• CO Poisoning detection in the ER - - LINK -
• Mass Poisoning by CO - - LINK -
• EPA - - LINK -

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