Pulmonary manifestations related to electronic cigarette use: A literature review

Abstract

The use of electronic cigarettes is becoming increasingly popular among Mexican adolescents and young adults. The lung injury associated with the use of this device is well recognized and has already caused the death of a young adult in our country, likewise, in the United States it has reached an epidemic level with thousands of people affected and dozens of deaths. The pathophysiology of this disease has not been elucidated due to the numerous compounds added to these cigarettes, but diluents such as vitamin E acetate added to tetrahydrocannabinol are particularly relevant. The diagnosis of this entity is mainly one of exclusion in patients with a history of use of these products, and signs and symptoms of lung injury. Management is essentially supporting treatment, considering also more prevalent pulmonary infections. Health professionals should insist on the suspension of electronic cigarette use.