Multiorgan involvement with cardiac, renal and skeletal manifestations following inhalation of compressed air: A case report

The abuse of inhalants, such as compressed air duster cans containing hydrofluorocarbons (i.e., tetrafluoroethane and difluoroethane) is an underrecognized cause of multisystem organ dysfunction. The present study describes the case of a 29-year-old male patient presenting with syncope, elevated levels of troponins, acute kidney injury and diffuse bony sclerosis following acute on chronic daily inhalation of compressed air. A cardiac evaluation revealed troponin elevation attributed to non-thrombotic myocardial injury (type 2 MI) related to hydrofluorocarbon toxicity, rather than a classic type 1 acute coronary syndrome, while imaging and laboratory analyses suggested skeletal involvement with possible toxic bone disease. The patient was treated conservatively with supportive measures, with successful resolution of his laboratory abnormalities as well as other symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, the case described herein represents one of the few reported cases in the literature linking hydrofluorocarbon inhalant abuse to such widespread systemic complications. The present case report highlights the broad spectrum of organ injury linked to compressed air duster cans and underscores the importance of considering dust inhalant toxicity in young adults presenting with unexplained cardiac biomarkers and systemic abnormalities.