Rare but relevant: Hydrocarbons and sudden sniffing syndrome

Abstract

Inhaled hydrocarbon-associated sudden collapse (IHASC), often referred to as ‘sudden sniffing death syndrome’ is a critical and often fatal event linked to the inhalation of volatile hydrocarbons, primarily occurring in adolescents and young adults. This syndrome manifests as sudden cardiac and/or respiratory arrest, typically occurring during or straight after inhalant use, almost always triggered by exertion or emotional distress. The prevalence is (likely) uncommon, but the syndrome concerning, given the young and vulnerable populations engaging in inhalant misuse. Those who collapse while alone are often found deceased, but those with a witnessed collapse and immediate bystander intervention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation have good survival rates, far better than from cardiac arrest in general. Ultimately, death from IHASC is preventable with educational initiatives aimed at reducing inhalant misuse, preventative measures aimed at reducing access to commonly misused products, and educating lay people to provide immediate bystander CPR.