Une intoxication par le monoxyde de carbone sans combustion

Most carbon monoxide poisonings are due to the inhalation of the gas produced during combustion. We report one case of acute occupational poisoning without any combustion. The patient, a technician in the chemical industry, used to check phosgene detectors. He presented carbon monoxide poisoning with two short phases of loss of consciousness. The poisoning was confirmed in the infirmary at the work place using a CO-tester to measure carbon monoxide concentration in the expired breath. The treatment including 100% normobaric oxygen therapy for 12 hours and one session of hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the hospital led to uneventful recovery. The synthesis of phosgene from carbon monoxide accounts for the presence of carbon monoxide in excess in the working unit.