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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Michael Gray, MD Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, tasteless, colorless gas produced during the incomplete combustion of carbon-based compounds. If inhaled, CO may cause nonspecific symptoms and i...

DIAGNOSIS

  • Clinical triad of (i) relevant symptoms, (ii) history of CO exposure, (iii) and elevated COHb levels (2).

  • An elevated carboxyhemoglobin level of >5% in a nonsmoker and >10% in smokers....

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Prompt removal from the CO source and initiation of oxygen therapy to displace CO.

  • Supportive care as necessary. Intubation and mechanical ventilation may be necessary for sev...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • All patients treated for acute CO poisoning should follow up in 1 to 2 months after discharge (2).

  • If there are behavioral or cognitive concerns, pursue neuropsyc...

REFERENCES

1
Chenoweth JA, Albertson TE, Gree MR. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Crit Care Clin. 2021:37(3):657-672.
2
Rose  JJ, Wang  L, Xu  Q, et al. Carbon monoxide poisoning: path...

CODES

ICD10

  • T58.0 Toxic effect of carbon monoxide from motor vehicle exhaust

  • T58.2 Toxic effect of carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion of other domestic fuels

  • T58.9 Toxic effect of carbon monoxide...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • CO poisoning warrants a high index of suspicion. Consider in patients exposed to fire; during the winter months, in young patients with chest pain; and when patients present as a group...

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