Phospholipid chlorohydrins as chlorine exposure biomarkers in a large animal model.

Chlorine is a toxic industrial chemical that has been used as a chemical weapon in recent armed conflicts. Confirming human exposure to chlorine has proven challenging, and there is currently no established method for analyzing human biomedical samples to unambiguously verify chlorine exposure. In this study, two chlorine-specific biomarkers: palmitoyl-oleoyl phosphatidylglycerol chlorohydrin (POPG-HOCl) and the lipid derivative oleoyl ethanolamide chlorohydrin (OEA-HOCl) are shown in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples from spontaneously breathing pigs after chlorine exposure.

Development of chlorine-induced lung injury in the anesthetized, spontaneously breathing pig.

Chlorine is a toxic industrial chemical produced in vast quantities globally, being used in a range of applications such as water purification, sanitation and industrial processes. Its use and transport cannot be restricted; exposure may occur following accidental or deliberate releases. The OPCW recently verified the use of chlorine gas against civilians in both Syria and Iraq.

Assessment of N-acetylcysteine as a therapy for phosgene-induced acute lung injury.

The toxic industrial chemical (TIC) phosgene remains an important chemical intermediate in many industrial processes. Inhalation of phosgene can cause an acute lung injury (ALI) which, in severe cases may result in death. There are currently no effective pharmacological therapies or evidence-based treatment guidelines for managing exposed individuals.

Continuous positive airway pressure: An early intervention to prevent phosgene-induced acute lung injury.

Exposure to toxic industrial chemicals such as phosgene may occur through accidental or deliberate release. Inhalation may result in an acute lung injury which manifests as hypoxaemia with insufficient oxygen being delivered to the tissues resulting in hypoxia, respiratory failure and death. No effective pharmacological therapy currently exists and treatment remains supportive, often requiring intensive care facilities.