Carbon monoxide can be generated by a variety of combustions, including the use of explosives.
Situations where explosives may be used:
(1) mining
(2) tunneling
(3) construction
(4) warfare
(5) demolition
Risk factors:
(1) use of a large quantity of explosives
(2) explosions done over a period of time
(3) trapping of the gas and poor ventilation
Carbon monoxide trapped in a tunnel or cave can seep upwards to poison people living over or near the location.
Differential diagnosis:
(1) release of other toxic gases from the explosives
(2) blast injury
(3) carbon monoxide being released from another source
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Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
