Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Caused by Mercury Inhalation: A Case Report

Inhalation of mercury vapor is an uncommon cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome. It may go unnoticed if appropriate environmental/occupational history is not taken. A 2-year-old child presented with severe respiratory distress and progressed to develop acute respiratory distress syndrome, necessitating high-pressure mechanical ventilation. On detailed enquiry, history of exposure to mercury fumes was obtained (at home), during gold extraction by the father. Diagnosis of mercury poisoning was confirmed by blood levels, and despite treatment with dimercaprol (mercury chelator) and high-frequency ventilation, the child subsequently succumbed within 26 hours. This case reiterates the need for awareness regarding unusual environmental toxic exposures and need for stricter regulations for sale or use of toxic products.