Utilization of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and induced hypothermia after hydrogen sulfide exposure

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide is a toxic gas produced as a by-product of organic waste and many industrial processes. Hydrogen sulfide exposure symptoms may vary from mild (dizziness, headaches, nausea) to severe lactic acidosis via its inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation, leading to cardiac arrhythmias and death. Treatment is generally supportive. We report the case of a patient presenting with cardiac arrest secondary to hydrogen sulfide exposure treated with both hyperbaric oxygen therapy and therapeutic hypothermia to achieve full neurologic recovery. © 2012 Daedalus Enterprises.