CTICasesSulfur Dioxide Inhalation
Imaging findings
Serial chest radiographs in a smelter worker show rapid development of diffuse, bilateral alveolar consolidations and ground-glass opacities, with a dual-lumen veno-venous ECMO cannula (Avalon catheter) positioned in the superior vena cava, right atrium, and inferior vena cava. No pleural effusions are present.
Key takeaways
Inhalation of sulfur dioxide (SO2), a highly soluble toxic gas produced in ore smelting and chemical industries, causes immediate upper airway irritation and can lead to severe acute lung injury (ARDS) when inhaled in large concentrations. The resulting diffuse alveolar damage presents as rapidly progressive bilateral airspace consolidation, often requiring mechanical ventilation and advanced supportive therapies like VV-ECMO.
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