What Researchers Did
Researchers reported on a 58-year-old man who developed compartment syndrome and rhabdomyolysis after acute isocyanate inhalation and was successfully treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy following fasciotomy.
What They Found
A 58-year-old man exposed to isocyanate developed compartment syndrome with creatine kinase levels of 15,250 IU/L and lower leg tissue pressures of 180/170 mmHg. Following fasciotomy and seven days of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (2.0 ATA for 90 minutes twice daily), his condition improved over five months, preventing amputation.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients exposed to isocyanates, particularly in confined or high-temperature environments, should be aware of potential non-respiratory complications like compartment syndrome. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be a valuable adjunctive treatment option for severe cases of compartment syndrome caused by acute isocyanate inhalation.
Canadian Relevance
This case report has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a single case report, the findings cannot be generalized to a broader patient population.