Vizag pharma firm staffer suffers burns after inhaling toxic MDC, recovers after 18 days
The employee was immediately rushed to KIMS Icon Hospital, where doctors identified burn injuries on his back and spine
By Newsmeter Network
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Visakhapatnam: A 44-year-old employee named Appala Naidu suffered severe injuries and lost consciousness after accidentally inhaling methylene dichloride (MDC) while working at a pharmaceutical company in Visakhapatnam. This incident occurred at the beginning of the month.
He was immediately rushed to KIMS Icon Hospital, where doctors identified burn injuries on his back and spine.
Even a small amount of methylene dichloride is extremely dangerous
Consultant plastic surgeon Dr Dharma Nitesh Reddy shared details of the case: āBy the time Appala Naidu was brought to the hospital, he was unconscious. MDC, commonly used as a paint and varnish remover, is highly toxic. According to US environmental protection standards, inhaling or even coming into contact with just a teaspoon of MDC can be fatal. In this case, Appala Naidu suffered both internal and external injuries due to MDC exposure. Additionally, carbon monoxide entered his red blood cells, leading to a dangerous condition called carboxyhemoglobin. Without timely and proper treatment, this could have been life-threatening. The burn injuries also posed long-term health risks,ā Dr Nitesh Reddy said.
Fortunately, with advanced medical equipment and treatment, we immediately started multiple medical procedures. Dressings and treatments were applied for external burns, while a team of specialists addressed his internal complications.
After 18 days of treatment, Appala Naidu fully recovered and was successfully discharged. He is now able to walk and perform daily activities independently. In such critical cases, immediate and high-quality medical care is crucial. Even severe chemical injuries can be successfully treated with modern medical advancements.
āWorkers in the chemical industry must remain extremely cautious while handling hazardous substances. Even minor negligence can be life-threatening. Employers should provide adequate training and ensure a safe work environment for their employees,ā said Dr Nitesh Reddy.
