2023 Volume 1 Issue 2 Pages 75-77
We describe a case of aspiration pneumonitis with 10% (w/v) benzalkonium chloride (BAC) that proved disinfectant in bronchi using an anionic surfactant.
After gargling with 10% (w/v) BAC, a 72-year-old woman experienced pharyngeal irritation, developed a strong cough, and was transferred to the emergency room. The aspirated fluids were removed with a bronchoscope. Since test reagents were unavailable to prove that the bronchial fluid contained BAC (a cationic surfactant), we used an anionic surfactant (liquid soap) that could be considered to form micelles when mixed with BAC. Results showed that the fluid contained BAC because it rapidly became cloudy when mixed with liquid soap. Her symptoms improved after only seven days of administering systemic methylprednisolone and ampicillin/sulbactam.
Early diagnosis and treatment of chemical aspiration pneumonitis are crucial. Physicians should pay close attention when diagnosing respiratory symptoms after gargling, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
