Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
inhalation injury
Damage to respiratory tract from inhaling smoke, hot gases, or toxic fumes during burn incidents.
Full Definition
A life-threatening complication of burn injuries involving thermal or chemical damage to the upper and lower respiratory tract from inhaling superheated air, smoke, or toxic combustion products. Inhalation injury significantly increases mortality risk and may require immediate airway management, mechanical ventilation, and specialized pulmonary care. Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, bronchoscopy findings, and arterial blood gas analysis to guide treatment decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinct from carbon monoxide poisoning, though they may coexist.
In Context
- "Bronchoscopy confirmed significant inhalation injury requiring immediate intubation and ventilatory support." — ICU assessment
- "The presence of inhalation injury doubles the predicted mortality risk in burn patients." — Clinical research paper
Also known as
smoke inhalation
respiratory burn
Don't confuse with
carbon monoxide poisoning
thermal injury