Acute pneumonitis caused by low density barium sulphate aspiration

Abstract

The aspiration of contrast medium during the investigation of swallowing disorders is a well recognized hazard. It is therefore essential that the contrast medium administered is non-irritant to the lungs. A case is presented to illustrate the problems associated with the aspiration of a relatively non-irritant contrast medium.

Loculated Pyothorax, Pleural Thickening Due to Acquired Bochdalek Hernia and Barium Ingestion- A Rare Case.

“…It is not usual barium leaking from ruptured stomach into the pleural cavity, first in the literature though there are reported cases of barium aspiration leading to complications. [8] Thoracic empyema is a serious problem which usually results from pulmonary infection or thoracic surgery. Treatment includes sepsis control with antibiotics, restoration of pulmonary function and prevents lung entrapment after peeling.…”

Severe Barium Sulfate Aspirationinto the Lung: Clinical Presentation, Prognosis and Therapy

“…Because of the inert character of barium sulfate no lung injury characterized by polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes sequestration and edema usually seen after acid aspiration occurs [4,5]. However, there are reports of acute inflammation of the bronchial wall after barium aspiration which have been attributed to high density preparations (250% w/v) of barium sulfate [6,7], but have also been reported using lower density barium sulfate preparations [8]. Moreover, hypersensitivity reactions caused by one of the many additives to commercial barium preparations have been observed [6].…”

Severe barium sulphate aspiration: a report of two cases and review of the literature

“…Aspiration of barium sulphate into the lungs is not expected to cause severe lung injury due to its relatively non-irritant nature. Although inert in nature, acute inflammation or even death attributed either to high or low density preparations of barium sulphate, have been reported (3,6,10). Whether mortality is a result of gastric contents aspiration concomitant to barium aspiration is a matter of debate (13).…”

“…Moreover, hypersensitivity reactions, caused by one of the many additives to commercial barium preparations, have been observed (16). The typical radiographic pattern is that of striking opacities caused by the high atomic number of barium (z=56) (3,6,8). There is no single pattern, which is pathognomonic of the early or late sequelae of barium aspiration, apart from the high-density changes.…”