Pneumonitis Associated with Fluoropolymer Waterproofing Agents: Case Report

Authors

  • Joana Almeida Borges Serviço de Pneumologia. Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra. Coimbra. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7445-8669
  • Fátima Fradinho Serviço de Pneumologia. Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra. Coimbra.
  • António Jorge Ferreira Serviço de Pneumologia. Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra. Coimbra.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20344/amp.17786

Keywords:

Fluorocarbon Polymers/poisoning, Inhalation Exposure/adverse effects, Occupational Diseases/chemically induced, Pneumonia/chemically induced

Abstract

Pneumonitis associated with fluoropolymer waterproofing agents, an entity with few reported cases, can result from occupational exposure. This condition has a rapid onset after exposure, usually resolves with supportive treatment but there could be chronic sequelae. The authors report the case of a 48-year-old male patient admitted to hospital with acute onset of dyspnea and chest pain after using an aerosolized fluoropolymer-containing waterproofing product. He presented tachypnea, leukocytosis, elevated C reactive protein, elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase and hypoxemic respiratory failure. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral ground-glass opacities with peribronchovascular distribution. The patient was treated with oxygen and corticosteroid therapy, with clinical improvement. This chemical pneumonitis represents a diagnostic challenge since it implies a history of exposure to toxic agents and the pathophysiological mechanisms and safe exposure limits are still unknown.

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Published

2022-07-22

How to Cite

1.
Almeida Borges J, Fradinho F, Ferreira AJ. Pneumonitis Associated with Fluoropolymer Waterproofing Agents: Case Report. Acta Med Port [Internet]. 2022 Jul. 22 [cited 2024 Nov. 13];36(4):275-7. Available from: https://actamedicaportuguesa.com/revista/index.php/amp/article/view/17786

Issue

Section

Case Report