Toxic Gases Flashcards
T/F: Ammonia has a characteristic sharp odor.
True
Is ammonia lighter or heavier than air?
Heavier than air
Is ammonia soluble in water?
Yes
Humans can detect ammonia in air at what concentration?
At what concentration do their eyes burn?
- 10 ppm
- 25-35 ppm
Which species are most susceptible to ammonia toxicity?
Livestock: swine, poultry
Exposure to ammonia at what concentration can cause acute death?
5000 ppm
Ammonia is converted to what strong irritant on mucous membranes?
Ammonium hydroxide
How is ammonia absorbed?
Inhalation
Ammonia causes direct irritation where?
Mucous membranes
What does ammonia increase susceptibility to?
Due to what?
- Respiratory infections
- Due to continuous irritation
At what concentration of ammonia do you see a decreased ability to clear bacteria from the lungs?
50-75 ppm
At what concentration of ammonia do you see a decreased growth of young animals?
100 ppm
T/F: Inhalation of large concentrations of ammonia causes pulmonary edema and lung congestion due to decreased permeability of lung capillaries.
False - Inhalation of large concentrations of ammonia DOES causes pulmonary edema and lung congestions BUT this is due to INCREASED permeability of lung capillaries.
T/F: Ammonia toxicity causes acidosis and compensatory alkalosis.
False - Ammonia toxicity causes ALKALOSIS and compensatory ACIDOSIS.
What cycle might ammonia inhibit?
TCA cycle
Death from ammonia toxicity might be partly due to what 2 conditions?
- Asphyxia
- Electrolyte and cellular metabolic effects
Red mucous membranes, lacrimation, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge (serous and mucous) and keeping eyes shut are clinical signs seen with what type of toxicosis?
Ammonia
Decreased growth rate and decreased egg production in birds can be seen with what type of toxicosis?
Ammonia
What clinical sign may be seen with ammonia toxicity as a result of fluid in the lungs caused by pulmonary edema?
Dyspnea
What are 3 terminal signs that can be seen with ammonia toxicity?
- Cyanosis
- CNS stimulation
- Clonic convulsions
T/F: Chemical analysis are not routinely made with toxic gases.
True
Inhaled irritants, organophosphates, polychlorinated biphenyls and cardiac glycosides all cause respiratory insufficiency so they are differentials for which toxic gas?
Ammonia
What is the main form of treatment for ammonia toxicosis?
Remove source of ammonia.
What is a good treatment for an animal presenting with dyspnea as a result of ammonia toxicosis?
Fresh air