Dalamagka Maria and Zervas Konstantinos
Inhalation burn is responsible for 50% of the mortality associated with thermal burn. Inhalation burns are usually observed in exposure to smoke, heat, toxic gases, and combustion components. Inhalation burn causes damage to airway epithelium, mucosal edema, and reduces surface activity. These conditions are clinically manifested by airway obstruction, bronchospasm and atelectasis. The area above the tongue is particularly vulnerable to thermal damage. Often the burn develops swelling and obstruction of the upper airways, which may not be immediately apparent. The larynx can be affected not only by thermal burn but also by the direct toxic action of irritant gases, showing early tibial swelling and laryngospasm.
