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Questions and Answers
What is the most common source of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning?
Which of the following is a mechanism of action of carbon monoxide (CO)?
At what carboxyhemoglobin level does carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning result in convulsions and coma?
What is the cause of death in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning?
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Which investigation is specifically used to measure carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels?
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Study Notes
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- The most common source of carbon monoxide poisoning is from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces like homes, garages, and vehicles.
Mechanism of Action
- Carbon monoxide exerts its toxic effects primarily by binding to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), which reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and disrupts oxygen delivery to tissues.
Clinical Effects
- Convulsions and coma in carbon monoxide poisoning typically occur at carboxyhemoglobin levels greater than 30%, indicating significant brain hypoxia and neurological impairment.
Cause of Death
- The primary cause of death in cases of carbon monoxide poisoning is often hypoxia, which results from severe impairment of oxygen transport and utilization in the body.
Investigation
- The measurement of carboxyhemoglobin levels is specifically conducted through blood gas analysis, which assesses COHb concentration to confirm the diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Description
Test your knowledge of carbon monoxide sources and poisoning with this quiz. Learn about the colorless, odorless gas produced from incomplete combustion, including its endogenous and exogenous sources. Explore the common conditions of carbon monoxide poisoning and increase your awareness of this potentially deadly gas.
