Zinc chloride (ZnCl2) may be used in some smoke bombs or screens. Inhalation of the smoke can be toxic.
Risk factors for toxicity:
(1) exposure in a closed space
(2) repeated exposures
(3) high-level (heavy and/or prolonged) exposure
The typical reaction is biphasic - early (immediate) and delayed (> 24 hours).
Early adverse effects due to irritation of airways:
(1) dyspnea
(2) coughing
(3) lacrimation
Delayed adverse effects:
(1) tachycardia
(2) dyspnea
(3) coughing
(4) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which can result in respiratory failure
Late complications:
(1) pulmonary fibrosis
(2) zinc toxicity
In the study of El Idrissi et al the mortality rate was 6%.
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Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine
