Inhalant Abuse of Ethyl Chloride Spray: A Case Report

Abstract

Ethyl chloride spray, which is usually used to relieve pain after injuries, is increasingly being used as a sniffing alternative. The number of people using this is rising due to its easy availability, cost-effectiveness and legality. The high lipid solubility of ethyl chloride leads to a rapid absorption of it in the lungs. However, data on the biotransformation of ethyl chloride in humans are sparse. We present the case of a 53-year-old male who had been inhaling ethyl chloride up to 3 times a week since 25 years, and describe his symptoms and the circumstances of abuse. This should help raise awareness of this issue so that abuse can be recognized early and rapid action taken.

Zusammenfassung

Ethylchlorid-Spray, das normalerweise zur Schmerzlinderung nach Verletzungen verwendet wird, wird zunehmend als Schnüffelalternative verwendet. Die Zahl steigt aufgrund der leichten Verfügbarkeit, der Kosteneffizienz und der Legalität. Aufgrund der hohen Fettlöslichkeit von Ethylchlorid kommt es zu einer raschen Absorption in der Lunge. Die Datenlage über die Biotransformation von Ethylchlorid beim Menschen ist jedoch begrenzt. Wir stellen den Fall eines 53-jährigen Mannes vor, der seit 25 Jahren bis zu 3-mal pro Woche Ethylchlorid inhaliert hat. Der vorgestellte Fall soll anhand der dargestellten Symptomen und Umständen das Bewusstsein für die Substanz erhöhen, um Missbrauch frühzeitig zu erkennen und ein schnelles Handeln zu gewährleisten.

Keywords

ethyl chloride - inhalant use - neurotoxicity - sniffing substances - abuse

Schlüsselwörter

Ethylchlorid - inhalativer Gebrauch - Neurotoxizität - Schnüffelstoffe - Missbrauch

Publication History

Received: 11 February 2020

Accepted: 08 April 2021

Article published online:
08 July 2021

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