Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS) following accidental exposure to Dimethyl Sulphate ( DMS)–first case reported in Sri Lanka

Abstract

DMS exposure by inhalation damages pharynx, larynx and lower airways. We report a case   related  to DMS exposure leading to RADS. A 37 year old man admitted to Emergency Department with dry cough, severe burning sensation of throat, mild dyspnoea, photophobia and hoarseness following accidental exposure to DMS vapor. His temperature was 38.1⁰C and had pharyngeal redness, B/L conjunctivitis, excessive cholinergic activity. Fluid therapy and Oxygen were  initiated. he became progressively drowsy and  respiratory signs & symptoms got exacerbated. Basal haziness of right lung and vascular prominence of lung hilum was evident on chest x-ray (CXR). Patient clinically improved over next two weeks. But his respiratory symptoms persisted for further 6 months. Owing to above criteria this was interpreted as RADS following exposure to DMS vapor.