Diffuse endobronchial polyposis associated with chlorosilane inhalation.

INTRODUCTION: Chlorosilane is widely used in modern industry. The health effect in humans after chlorosilane exposure is still unclear.

CASE SUMMARY: A 57-year-old male developed severe lung damage after accidental inhalation of chlorosilane. He received mechanical ventilation and experienced refractory CO2 retention with difficulty weaning. Bronchoscopy showed diffuse endobronchial polyposis two months after exposure.

IMAGES: Serial radiographs, bronchoscopy images demonstrated the course of severe respiratory injury and an uncommon sequalae of diffuse inflammatory endobronchial polyps.

DISCUSSION: The pathogenesis of polyp formation may be associated with prolonged inflammation. Interventional bronchoscopy was used to remove the polyps. Corticosteroids may be considered, but there is the risk of superimposed infection.

CONCLUSION: Chlorosilane inhalation could induce severe lung damage. Multiple endobronchial polyps may be a severe sequela contributing to difficulty weaning.