Summary

• Occurs when noxious stimuli such as heat, gases, or particulate matter come into contact with the respiratory system.
• Residential fires and workplace accidents are common events that lead to inhalation injury.
• Pathophysiology includes thermal injury, systemic absorption of toxic compounds, and direct cellular injury.
• Clinical manifestations include upper airway obstruction, carbon monoxide poisoning, airflow obstruction, and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Therapy is largely supportive, although targeted therapies are the subject of active investigation.
• Long-term sequelae and complications are common.