We need you! Join our contributor community and become a WikEM editor through our open and transparent promotion process.
Sulfur mustard
From WikEM
Contents
Background
- Abbreviation: H
- 2,2,-dichlordiethyl sulfide
- A blister chemical agent (vesicant) type of chemical weapon
- Mustard vapor exposure greater medical concern than liquid form
- Damage begins at 1-2 minutes post-exposure with irreversible damage within 20 minutes
Clinical Features
- Odor of garlic, onion, or horseradish
- Physical symptoms do not occur until approximately 20 minutes but may take up to 4 hours
- Penetrates skin, rubber gloves, clothing
Differential Diagnosis
Chemical weapons
- Blister chemical agents (Vesicants)
- Lewisite (L)
- Sulfur mustard (H)
- Phosgene oxime (CX)
- Pulmonary chemical agents
- Incendiary agents
- Cyanide chemical weapon agents
- Nerve Agents
- Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
- Includes household and commercial pesticides (diazinon and parathion)
- G-series (sarin, tabun, soman) and V-series (VX)
- V-series high viscosity with oily consistency
Evaluation
Management
- Immediate decontamination, 0.5% hypochlorite solution will inactivate sulfur mustard but not appropriate for pediatric patients
- No antidotes for mustard agents
