Evaluation of the Role of Poisoning Severity Score, Serum Procalcitonin and C-reactive Protein in Acute Hydrocarbon Intoxicated Cases Admitted to the Poison Control Center Ain Shams University Hospitals

Hydrocarbons are a primary energy source in modern society. They are present in many common household and occupational products, including motor fuels, paint thinners, cleaning agents, lotions, and industrial solvents. Unfortunately, these products are also used as agents of abuse and typically inhaled .

They are derived mainly from petroleum (kerosene, gas, naphtha) or wood (turpentine, pine oil). They can be found in liquid, gas, or solid form depending on their properties. All hydrocarbons can be toxic, but aromatic (ring-shaped) and halogenated hydrocarbons typically have more severe toxicity .

Toxicity occurs in various ways including through inhalation, ingestion, aspiration, and dermal exposure. Frequently, these exposures occur during attempted recreational use of the substances and sometimes for self-injurious behavior