Chemical Pneumonitis and Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome After Fumigation Exposure to Dimethanol and Glutaraldehyde: A Silent Menace Unmasked

Chemical pneumonitis caused by dimethanol and glutaraldehyde exposure is a serious medical condition that requires prompt and effective treatment. As per a literature search in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus, this is the first instance of chemical pneumonitis caused after fumigation with dimethanol and glutaraldehyde inhalation. This article discusses the factors that can contribute to the development of chemical pneumonitis and outlines the diagnostic and treatment options available to healthcare professionals. By understanding the causes and consequences of dimethanol- and glutaraldehyde-induced chemical pneumonitis, medical professionals can provide better care to their patients and help prevent future cases of this potentially life-threatening condition. This describes a case of a 60-year-old female who presented to the emergency department complaining of acute onset of shortness of breath approximately 48 hours after being exposed to dimethanol and glutaraldehyde while working in intensive care. After 13 days, the patient’s symptoms subsided and she was discharged. On follow-up, after 1 month, there was a marked resolution of the initial symptoms.