Turpentine-induced chemical pneumonitis with broncho-pleural fistula

Abstract

Turpentine is a volatile hydrocarbon used in polishes, solvents, paints and textile industry. When hydrocarbons are aspirated into the lung, they cause chemical pneumonitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and rarely pneumatoceles and pneumothorax. We report a 20-year old boy with turpentine-induced chemical pneumonitis that evolved into a bronchopleural fistula. He was treated with oxygen, steroids and intercostal tube drainage. This is the first reported case of turpentine-associated bronchopleural fistula.